1 week trip to miami cost

• Travel Planning Guide

How much does a trip to Miami Cost?

How much money should you budget for your trip to Miami?

How much does a weekend trip to miami cost.

• How much does a five-day trip to Miami cost?
• How much does a one-week trip to Miami cost?
• Hostel Prices
• Hotel Prices

The Cost of a Trip to Miami

A journey to Miami will usually cost from $86 to $454 for an individual and $172 to $908 for two people. The mid-range tends to hover around $206 per person daily, as calculated from our travel cost data from fellow travelers covering food, accommodation, sightseeing, and local transportation expenses. This is a fairly wide price range, and your individual expenses will vary by the level of luxury and travel style that you choose. For those seeking a balance between comfort and budget, booking standard accommodation and eating at typical restaurants, your expenses will be close to this calculated average. Read on for a detailed breakdown of travel expenses by category and a comprehensive overview of accommodation and activity costs tailored to your visit.

If you're considering an independent trip to Miami, it's helpful to have an idea of the amount of money you'll need. For budget travelers, planning to spend around $86 per day should cover your essential expenses, including affordable accommodations like hostels and budget hotels, cost-effective meal options, local transportation, and affordable activities. For those with a mid-range budget, allocating around $206 per day would allow for more comfortable hotels, dining at typical restaurants, and exploring a range of popular attractions. Luxury travelers, on the other hand, should anticipate a daily budget of $454, which would encompass higher-end accommodations, dining at nicer restaurants, and indulging in private tour options. It's worth noting that these price ranges are based on extensive travel cost data for Miami from fellow travelers, as well as insights from travel companies regarding hotel and tour prices. For further details on travel costs, you can refer to our comprehensive travel cost data for Miami .

Travelers spend, on average, $618 per person on a three-day trip to Miami. This includes sightseeing, hotels, food, and local transportation. You can stick close to this average price by staying at mid-range hotels and eating at mid-level restaurants, while also paying for some entry tickets to popular attractions. If you wish to travel cheaper, it's possible to find lower-cost accommodations, eat at less expenive restaurants, and find more free activities. It's also common for many visitors to have a much higher travel budget, as many high-end hotels and restaurants can be found around town.

How much does a five day trip to Miami cost?

With five days in Miami, you can expect to spend about $1,030 total, not including transportation to and from the city. It's possible to stay close to this daily average by booking mid-range hotels, eating at normal restaurants, and paying for some entry tickets to popular attractions. It's possible to find lower-cost accommodations, eat at less expenive restaurants, and find more free activities if you want to spent less money.

How much does a one week trip to Miami cost?

Most visitors spend between $602 and $3,179 for a one week trip to Miami, with the average being $1,442 . This includes sightseeing, local transportation, food, and hotels. One week is enough time to have a more in-depth experience in Miami. Also, one week allows you to be more flexible with your time and money, so you can potentially save money on some aspects of your trip while spending more on others.

Hostel Prices in Miami

With more than 10 hostels in Miami, the average price is $27 per night for a dorm bed. The cheapest hostel costs $12 and the most expensive is $43. Usually popular with younger travelers, hostels are a great way to save money while also being social. But not all hostels are the same, and we've analyzed the prices of both dorms and private rooms to find the average prices and best places to stay. You can see more details about the hostel prices in Miami here .

Here are a few sample prices from popular hostels in Miami.

• $20 for a dorm bed at Freehand Miami in Miami more details
• $22 for a dorm bed at Generator Miami in Miami more details
• $29 for a dorm bed at Viajero Miami in Miami more details

Hotel Prices in Miami

The average price for a hotel room in Miami is $152 per night. This average is based on our detailed analysis of available hotels in the area. If you want to save money, or if you're planning a more luxurious trip, it's important to look at hotel prices based on the overall star-rating as well as guest reviews. Also, prices can vary by location and amenities. You can see more details from our analysis of hotel prices in Miami here , and below is a breakdown of hotel prices by star-rating.

EB Hotel Miami Airport

Biltmore hotel, should you do a tour in miami.

You'll find a wide range of guided tours in Miami and many visitors enjoy the convenience of having an expert guide leading them through the chosen activity. Tours range in price from $25 for the Miami Skyline Cruise of South Beach and Millionaire Homes to $999 for the Boat Tour and Spearfishing Lessons in Miami .

• Miami Beach Art Deco, History & Crime Non-Touristy Walking Tour Viator $ 48
• Miami Beach Art Deco, History & Crime Non-Touristy Walking Tour: $48
• "Cigar Factory Tour": $35
• Miami Beach Art Deco & Hidden Gems Tour with Local Historian: $48
• Semi-Private Zodiac RIB Boat Tour w/Exclusive Stiltsville Access: $187
• French Street Art Tour in Wynwood, Miami: $52
• Luxury Shared Miami River E-Boat Cruise & Wine and Charcuterie: $127
• Miami Art Deco Gems & Jewels Walking Tour: $39
• Miami Small-Group Tour with Boat Cruise + Little Havana +Wynwood: $159

More for Miami

If you're planning a trip to Miami, Florida, check out these other informative travel guides.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis. 2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis. For example, the Food 2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment 1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.

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• Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

Complete Week-long Miami Itinerary

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Miami is one of the coolest, flashiest cities in the US and a fun place to plan a trip.  The city does not sleep with something going on at all hours of the day.  That being said, it’s a great city no matter your style.  Personally, I’m a more low-key traveler so this week long Miami itinerary is about enjoying the cultural elements of the city with some relaxation at the beaches but you can easily modify to include a night out at the Fontainebleau.

Table of Contents

What should I know?

Where to stay.

The best areas to stay are Coconut Grove, Coral Gables, Merrick Park and Brickell.  South Beach is obviously a great choice too but be prepared to spend a lot of money. If you’re looking for a splurge, I’d go for The Delano .  They have a gorgeous pool and plush daybeds on the beach which would be a relaxing way to spend a day.  The Biltmore is another luxe option in Coral Gables where you could spend time golfing and enjoying their extravagant Sunday brunch buffet.

Other Considerations

• You may find cheaper flights into Ft. Lauderdale. If you’re renting a car, it’s not too far to drive to Miami from Ft. Lauderdale. 
• Driving is intense in Miami.  People drive fast, weave in and out of traffic and don’t use signals.  Be prepared to be hyper focused when driving here and a bit more offensive rather than defensive.
• It’s incredibly expensive to park overnight anywhere in Miami.  Try to negotiate for a good overnight rate (or ask or the parking fee to be waived) with your hotel/Airbnb.  There are metered spots around the city for your daytime parking needs and it’s easy to download the parking app to pay from your phone.
• The city can go from intense heat to a tropical rainstorm in a matter of seconds.  It’s best to carry an umbrella with you and be prepared.
• A little bit of Spanish is very handy as over half the Miami population speaks Spanish.

Week long Miami itinerary Snapshot:

Let’s go, day one : wynwood, south beach, coconut grove.

After touching down and picking up your rental car, stop at Versailles Cuban Bakery for breakfast.   This is a classic Cuban restaurant with some of the best pastries (guava is the best!) and strongest coffee you’ll ever have.

If you want to stretch your legs more from your flight, walk around Wynwood .  The beautiful and ever changing art murals at Wynwood Walls are fun to walk around. The surrounding shops and cafes are also fun to stop at. If you’re hungry, consider Ono Poke Shop or Mandolin Aegean (slightly further north) for lunch.  The Salty Donut, Taiyaki NYC Miami or Mr Kream Wynwood are fun choices for dessert. 

From here, head to Miami Beach to relax for the rest of the afternoon. Anywhere on Miami Beach is a good choice. I prefer the higher numbered streets as parking is cheaper and the crowds are thinner. Lower numbered streets (aka the true South Beach) are more hectic but also more buzzing. You can also walk along the beach from North to South if you want to burn some energy.

After a relaxing afternoon, spend your evening around Coconut Grove for a more relaxed vibe.  Monty’s Raw Bar is a fun place right on the water (it’s a favorite of locals and college students). 

Day Two : Key Biscayne, Vizcaya Gardens

Today, grab some coffee/tea and breakfast at All Day before driving over the Rickenbacker Causeway to Key Biscayne.  You’ll feel like you’re escaping to a tropical island as you head up and over the big bridge.

Crandon Park is a popular option, otherwise you can go all the way to the end and park in Bill Baggs State Park .

After a relaxing morning, stop at Rusty Pelican as you make your way back to Miami. It’s a great spot right on the waterway.

Once you’ve had a chance to clean up, head to Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.   Keep in mind it closes each day at 4:30, so try to get there by 2:30 so you have enough time to enjoy the gardens. 

If you’re wanting a fancier evening on South Beach, a few popular options for dinner are Joe’s Stone Crab , Smith & Wollensky and Nikki Beach .  Locals will typically eat dinner later (8/9 and later). After dinner, it’s fun walking around South Beach as the streets are buzzing with activity.  If you’re into clubbing, this would be a good night for it.  LIV is popular and on the grounds of one of my favorite (and most iconic) South Beach Hotels – The Fontainebleau.

Day Three : Fort Lauderdale day trip

Today I recommend heading up near Ft. Lauderdale for some more beach time.  Swing by Zak the Baker (closed on Saturdays) on the way up for some delicious pastries and coffee/tea.

If you enjoy shopping, stop by Sawgrass Mills outlet mall before going to the beach.

Hollywood Beach is one of my favorites and around a 40-minute drive from Miami. Street parking or lots near the beach are typically available. 

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, check out Le Tub for delicious burgers on the waterway.  Other popular options nearby include GG’s Waterfront, Billy’s Stone Crab Hollywood and The Taco Spot.

I would highly recommend stopping by Jaxson’s Ice Cream Parlour after lunch before heading back to Miami.  It’s a staple of Hollywood and delicious.

Once back in Miami, check out a dinner option suggested above you haven’t been to yet, or head back towards Little Havana for a more low-key dinner at La Camaronera Seafood Joint and Fish Market . 

From here, check out a show (Adrienne Arsht Center) or a game (The Heat, Marlins).  For something a bit more unconventional, check out stargazing events at Everglades National Park . You can see the Milky Way due to limited light pollution and it’s a gorgeous way to spend a night.

Day Four : Everglades Day Trip + Paddleboarding

Start your day with Miami Beach Paddleboard where you’ll get to explore the various waterways just off Miami Beach by paddleboard.

Afterwards, have brunch at Lilikoi Organic Living, Big Pink or Pura Vida.

After brunch, head to the Everglades for an Airboat ride. The boat tours are about a 30-minute drive west of Miami.

If you’re up for a detour on your way back to Miami (like a 45-minute drive out of your way), go to the Robert is Here Fruit Stand .  It has the best fruit and the most delicious smoothies (particularly the Strawberry Key Lime smoothie).

An alternative to a paddleboard tour in the morning is doing it this evening at sunset with neon glowing paddleboards.  Check out Miami Beach Paddleboard for programs.  For dinner, check out one of the aforementioned spots or else SUGARCANE raw bar grill looks like a fun option near Wynwood.

Day Five : The Biltmore + Venetian Pools + The Grove

If you’re looking for a splurge on your week long Miami itinerary, start you day with the fabulous Biltmore Sunday Champagne Brunch . 

If you’re ready for a break from the beach but still want to lounge near water, go to the Venetian Pool in Coral Gables.  It’s a beautiful spring-water pool from the early 1920’s and a relaxing way to spend the afternoon.

For dinner, check out The Grove.  There are lots of options (Greenstreet Café is good but there are many choices) and it’s a fun area to walk around and grab a post-dinner drink to toast a fabulous getaway to Miami!

Ready to plan your week long Miami itinerary?! For more US travel inspiration, click here!

Happing Planning!

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Cost of a Trip to Miami Beach, FL, US & the Cheapest Time to Visit Miami Beach

The average price of a 7-day trip to Miami Beach is $1,869 for a solo traveler, $3,357 for a couple, and $6,293 for a family of 4 . Miami Beach hotels range from $95 to $725 per night with an average of $162, while most vacation rentals will cost $230 to $1060 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Miami International Airport ( MIA ) are between $642 and $1,100 per person for economy flights and $2,015 to $3,452 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $58 to $135 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Miami Beach, FL, US

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to MIA and stay in a Miami Beach hotel:

• January 15th to March 4th (except the week of February 12th)
• April 16th to June 10th (except the weeks of May 7th and May 21st)
• August 13th to November 18th

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Miami Beach is usually mid to late September .

Average Miami Beach Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Miami Beach for a week is $1,469-$2,965 ($210-$424 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $58 to $135 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $409 to $880 for economy

Lodging : $109 to $109 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $156 to $190 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Miami Beach for a week is $2,750-$5,230 ($393-$747 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $116 to $270 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $818 to $1,760 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Miami Beach for a week is $4,568-$9,124 ($653-$1,303 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $232 to $540 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,636 to $3,520 for economy

Lodging : $218 to $218 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $234 to $304 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Miami Beach

How cheap can you make a vacation to Miami Beach? The cheapest trip to Miami Beach is about $110 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 1% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $21 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $83.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Miami Beach for a week is $773-$1,926 ($110-$275 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $34 to $68 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $83 to $95 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $21 to $61 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Miami Beach for a week is $1,420-$3,282 ($203-$469 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $68 to $136 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Miami Beach for a week is $2,792-$6,564 ($399-$938 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $136 to $272 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $166 to $190 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $34 to $85 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is very difficult to travel to Miami Beach cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Miami Beach Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Miami Beach.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Miami Beach for a week is $3,096-$15,787 ($442-$2,255 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $110 to $270 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,198 to $1,813 for first class

Lodging : $188 to $725 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $1,060 to $2,014 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Miami Beach for a week is $5,064-$19,490 ($723-$2,784 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $220 to $540 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,396 to $3,626 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Miami Beach for a week is $10,128-$34,144 ($1,447-$4,878 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $440 to $1,080 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $4,792 to $7,252 for first class

Lodging : $376 to $1,450 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $1,590 to $3,222 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Miami Beach Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Miami Beach is much higher than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in Miami Beach due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Miami Beach Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Miami Beach hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in Miami Beach.

Flight Costs to Miami Beach

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $1,100 average in late December to a low of $642 in mid to late September. Median flight price is $650. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Miami Beach our data includes 1,098 originating airports, and 175 airlines. The area has more variance in price compared with other locations. Flying to Miami Beach from an airport like Frankfurt Hahn ( HHN ) in Hahn (Germany) for an average $7,279 trip fare will obviously cost a lot more than from an airport like Jacksonville International ( JAX ) in Jacksonville, FL (the United States) at an average of just $175.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Tuesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Tuesday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Miami Beach, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $458, so you can easily save about 71% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Miami Beach can easily cost $510 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $34 per person. Private tours can cost $1013 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

Other Miami Beach Guides

Travel costs nearby.

• South Beach, FL, US
• Mid Beach, FL, US
• North Bay Village, FL, US
• Midtown, FL, US
• Downtown Miami, FL, US
• Miami, FL, US
• MiMo Biscayne Boulevard Historic District, FL, US
• Brickell, FL, US
• Surfside, FL, US
• Key Biscayne, FL, US

Travel Costs in Popular Places

• Frankfurt, Germany
• Chiang Rai, Thailand
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Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Miami International Airport Guide

Neighborhoods to Know

Driving in Miami

Public Transportation

48-Hour Itinerary

Best Day Trips From Miami

Top Things to Do

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Best Beaches

Hikes Near Miami

Museums in Miami

Theater in Miami

Live Music Venues

Shopping Guide

Must-Try Food

Top Restaurants

Bars & Nightclubs

Breweries in Miami

Your Trip to Miami: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to Miami: the Complete Guide

Watch Now: Tips for Planning Your Visit to Miami

Miami and South Florida as a whole is a long-established tourist mecca, offering the best in beaches, entertainment, hotels, dining, and attractions. It's easy to spend too much money enjoying these amenities, but there’s never enough time to do and see it all. We’re here to help. With a little direction, you can squeeze the life out of your visit, no matter how short, and really feel as if you’re taking advantage of the very best Miami has to offer.

When to Visit

Anytime is a great time, but if possible try to avoid peak tourist periods such as Christmas and spring break when restaurant lines are long, causeways are clogged and attractions are jammed. Scheduling trips during hurricane season (August through October, give or take) can be tricky, too. Even if a hurricane does not hit the area, the mere threat creates multiple logistical problems like traffic, gas shortages, power outages, and business closures. We don’t want that, but the weather does change at the drop of a hat. Make sure to pay attention to weather reports leading up to your trip in case you do decide to travel during storm season. Rescheduling isn’t favorable, but sometimes it’s inevitable. Mid-winter and late spring, though, are two high-value times for a visit.

Getting Here

South Florida has three major airports. Use that to your advantage. And Miami’s a city where it pays to shop by the airport. International terminals at Miami (MIA) , Fort Lauderdale (FLL) , and Palm Beach County (PBI) are all located within a 60-mile span along I-95. Fares can vary quite a bit from one airport to the next, and sometimes the price of ground transportation pales in comparison to the savings. At MIA, the bus station is in Concourse E, directly across from U.S. Customs. Cab rides into downtown Miami generally run about $40. Now, you can Uber or Lyft from any airport and opting for a shared ride will save you a pretty penny that you can later spend on a meal or a drink.

Where to Stay

During the late 20th century, the South Beach area of Miami Beach was considered a slum and was frequented by drug dealers and hooligans, anyone looking for trouble really. Since that time, many of the Art Deco, stucco buildings have been restored to their original splendor and you can see immediately how the crowds have changed, too. This trendy locale is a great place to find all kinds of hotels, from budget to luxury.

As you search for Miami-area hotel stays , look for well-established boutiques as well as hip, new hotels catering to millennials and young professionals. The redesigned Stanton South Beach , a Marriott property South of Fifth (SoFi), is oceanfront and features a beautiful and authentic Japanese restaurant with a hidden Izakaya as well as a Baja-inspired Mexican eatery. Head a bit north on Collins Avenue and you’ll eventually run into the Eden Roc Hotel , Nobu Hotel (home to Florida’s first and only Malibu Farm, a West Coast dining establishment that’s made its way to Miami serving California-inspired fare), the Freehand Miami Beach (grab a table at 27 Restaurant and then a post-dinner cocktail at the Broken Shaker here) and the Generator, which is the newest and possibly coolest of the bunch. All of these hotels feature incredible dining and cocktail concepts as well as entertainment, the best quality amenities and furnishings and more.

Getting Around

Nowadays, you don’t really need to rent a car unless you’ll be driving all around town and maybe heading out of Miami altogether, either south to the Florida Keys or north to Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach. If your goal is to hit the beach and local attractions, Uber, Lyft and a good old-fashioned taxi ride will suffice.

There are some pretty interesting attractions (the Everglades, for example) that are quite a distance from where you're likely to stay. Car rental rates in Florida tend to be reasonable because of the volume of business. There’s also the option to ride Tri-Rail , a north-south service from West Palm Beach to Miami Int'l Airport. Find its online fare calculator here. Tri-Rail connects with Metrorail and Metrobus routes and offers monthly passes (not geared for visitors) and discounts for younger riders. The newest and (we think) most fun mode of transportation if you’re heading north from Miami is the Brightline. Hop on in Downtown Miami — the new station, which opened this year, has dining options and a city view. Once you’re on the train, feel free to booze up. Certain tickets include beer, wine, champagne, and house cocktails.

South Florida Attractions

The aforementioned Art Deco district is well worth a walking tour. But you shouldn't stop there — go to the beach! South Florida offers a variety of beaches . Some are cleaner, quieter and more secluded while others are where tourists and locals alike go to see and be seen. Do not miss Little Havana , a a neighborhood on the mainland with restaurants, culture and ambiance that’ll allow for an international escape. The area is happening, especially Calle Ocho, where you’ll find cultural and historical monuments, rum bars, cigar bars, live salsa music, Latin-inspired ice cream, a Spanish/English movie theater and much, much more.

Further away from the city, you'll find Everglades National Park , a truly unique national treasure that is well worth a visit. A $20 permit allows your private vehicle inside all entrances of the park for seven consecutive days.

An offbeat attraction: If you’re in the Homestead area (maybe taking a little road trip from Miami to the Keys), Coral Castle is a fun and kind of quirky stop you must make. Here, giant coral rocks were carved and balanced perfectly to form a "castle" by one man who weighed only 100 pounds. This Latvian immigrant did it all to attract the love of one woman who later rejected him, which is pretty impressive. How did he do it? Visit and find out. Adult tickets are $18 per person.

Once you get to the Florida Keys, stop in at Pennekamp State Park (great snorkeling and diving) in Key Largo, just an hour or so driving from Miami. The remaining 120 miles to Key West requires an overnight commitment, but that’s OK, too. There are tons of great hotels that have popped up on the Roosevelt Avenue strip of Key West over the past few years, including the Gates Hotel, 24 North and Havana Cabana. Stock Island’s the Perry is another beautiful hotel option if you’d rather avoid staying in the crowded, touristy downtown Key West area.

Another day trip worth taking is about 60 miles north of Miami. Spend a day with the wealthy and visit Worth Avenue in Palm Beach . Here, you can window shop for some of the finest luxury goods the world. Take a few hundred thousand "imaginary dollars" when deciding what you’ll buy. If Palm Beach is too far, you can have a similar experience on Fort Lauderdale's Las Olas Boulevard .

Two Gems Most Visitors Miss

There’s a lot to keep you busy in Miami including the Perez Art Museum, the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, watersports like jet skis, kayaking and paddleboarding and more. There are two gems in particular, though, that you might want to visit. Many visitors skip them so they can line up at the Theme Parks, but we think you’re missing out if you don’t make it to at least one. Fairchild Tropic Botanical Garden in Coral Gables is one of the highest-rated gardens in the world. You'll see a tropical rainforest and guides provide tram tours at no extra charge. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is an Italian villa built by James Deering. Here, you’ll experience architectural beauty, objects d'art, and stunning grounds.

More South Florida Tips

• Consider a GO Miami Card . This is a card you buy prior to your trip and then activate on first use. You can buy from one- to five-day cards ($81-$219) good for free admission at dozens of South Florida attractions. Design your itinerary before you consider a Go Miami purchase. That way, you can determine if the investment would save money on admissions. After all, you don't want to pay for a bunch of admissions that don't hold any interest.
• Try to Blend in. Despite South Florida's once shady reputation, most tourists will not run into violent crime nowadays. Unfortunately, there are criminals who specialize in targeting visitors. Make it more difficult for them to spot you. Don't stack luggage in your car so it can be seen through the windows. Keep big bills tucked safely away in a purse or money belt. Use common sense when walking in unfamiliar areas, and heed local advice about entering new territory where security could be an issue.
• A sunburn can ruin even the best trip . It might be obvious advice, but scores of people plan and save for a Florida vacation, only to lose most of the trip's value to sunburn. The intensity of the rays here probably exceed what you're accustomed to at home, and sunburn will set in far more quickly. Buy a good sun-blocker and use it consistently. Don’t forget to reapply every so often, especially after getting in the water and toweling off. Consider it cheap travel insurance. You’re welcome.

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Home » North America » Miami

MIAMI Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)

Well known for its beautiful beaches, sub-tropical climate, and Art Deco facades, Miami is the place to go to for a carefree vacation sipping cocktails by the pool! If you are the adventurous type and love to explore beyond the resort, there is so much to discover and plenty of options to consider while planning a Miami trip itinerary!

What used to be a predominantly winter retreat is now a thriving metropolis with year-round activities that offer something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the rich Latin American cultures and experience the growing arts scene, exotic cuisine, and lively nightlife!

If you are wondering what to do in Miami on your next visit, this Miami itinerary will help you make the most of your stay, regardless of if you are staying for the weekend or more than three days in Miami!

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Best Time To Visit Miami

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Florida is hot and sunny for most of the year, so there’s not necessarily a bad time to vacation in Miami! However, the city’s atmosphere does change throughout the year depending on the season.

High season in Miami occurs from November through to April and is particularly busy around the holidays. Temperatures are usually in the high 70’s, the humidity is low and there is little chance of rain. For most people, this is the best time to travel to Miami, especially if you are escaping the snow.

In fall, the city becomes a hive of activity, especially around Art Basel in Miami Beach. Spring is great for outdoor activities and enjoying Miami Music Week. Summer can get really hot, and this is also hurricane season, but if you can take the heat it is a great time to beat the crowds!

Have a look at the table below to decide when to visit Miami for yourself.

With a Miami City Pass , you can experience the best of Miami at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

There are more than 25 neighborhoods in the Miami area. Each offers visitors a diverse selection of attractions and activities.

Downtown Miami is the commercial and financial center of the city. Staying downtown is a great idea if you want to be surrounded by historic Miami landmarks, museums, and art galleries! There are also some great Miami Beach hostels in this area.

Downtown Miami is also home to the trendy Design District. Bursting with creative flair and artistic highlights, the Design District is well-known for its restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. This is one of the coolest parts of the city to spend a day simply wandering the streets and taking it all in!

Key Biscayne is our recommendation for the best place to stay in Miami for families with kids. It is a tropical island south of Miami noted for its natural setting, pristine beaches, and its relaxed, laid-back attitude.

Not only is Key Biscayne close to two amazing golden sand beaches but there are also tropical forests, mangroves, and parks nearby!

There are lots of places to visit nearby to keep the kids busy, like Miami Seaquarium, where your little ones will have the time of their lives seeing these fantastic sea creatures up-close and in person. If you really want to step your vacation up a notch, you can even rent a boat in Key Biscayne for a really awesome day out.

There are cool Airbnbs in Miami situated across the city.

Best Hostel in Miami – Rock Hostel

Our top pick for a great hostel stay in is Rock Hostel in Miami Beach. It offers great value for money, tons of freebies, and a super-chill beach vibe. At night the hostel comes alive and takes on a party atmosphere, warming the guests up for a fun night out on the town! For more great hostels check out our guide on the best hostels in Miami .

Best Airbnb in Miami – One bedroom penthouse with a pool and gym

The 950 sqft apartment has everything you need for a comfortable stay, our guests will feel to be like home. The apt has 1 45 inches flat tv in the living room and 1 flat tv in the bedroom. One king-size bed, 1 sofa and air mattress if needed. This is one. of the best vacation rentals in Miami for its facilities.

Best Budget Hotel in Miami – Leamington Hotel

With a fantastic location at the heart of Miami’s shopping district, this charming hotel is the perfect budget accommodation choice. It’s a stone’s throw from great restaurants, clubs, and bars. This cozy hotel boasts a swimming pool, helpful staff, and convenient airport transfers. Free breakfast is also included in your stay!

Best Luxury Hotel in Miami – Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Miami Downtown/Brickell

This incredible hotel is located a short walk from Brickell’s trendiest spots. It comes complete with a fitness room, swimming pool, and a jacuzzi. The rooms are modern, stylish, and they are outfitted with a kitchenette, refrigerator, and coffee/tea facilities. If you have an abundance of money to spend, the Hampton Inn is our favorite hotel in Miami!

Taking the greater metropolitan areas into account, Miami is a large city, so getting around can be time-consuming! Miami has a large and diverse public transportation network that runs throughout the entire city.

Working out the public transport system can be tricky for first timers touring Miami, but by catching the Metrobus, Metrorail, or even the touristy Metromover, you can travel just about anywhere in Miami as you have time!

Outside of Miami’s tourism areas, public transport gets pretty scarce. This makes it difficult to visit multiple outer-neighborhoods in a single day and is something to consider when planning your Miami itinerary.

Renting a car will give you more freedom and expand the number of places to visit in Miami, especially if you have a jam-packed itinerary for Miami planned! This will also allow you to take day trips from Miami central to more outlying areas.

You can still vacation in Miami without a rental car and have a great time doing so! You can easily get around the more central suburbs on foot and even indulge in a Miami walking tour in Downtown Miami.

Miami Design District | Wynwood Walls | Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science | Perez Art Museum Miami | Miami Children’s Museum | Lummus Park Beach

The first day on our Miami itinerary combines a healthy dose of art, some impressive architecture, and a trip to the beach!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Miami Design District

• Why it’s awesome: Trendy neighborhood combining art, architecture, designer fashion label stores, and a multitude of chic restaurants.
• Cost: Free!
• Food Recommendation: Take your pick of elegant restaurants and culinary choices on offer.

The Miami Design District is a hip and funky neighborhood uniting design, fashion, art and architecture. It recently went through a period of rejuvenation that remodeled the area to comprise of a plethora of creative experiences.

The Design District is a hub for high fashion as it houses many luxury brand stores such as Gucci, Fight Club, and Prada. If you appreciate quality and are able to afford high-end labels, then you’ll love a visit to this glitzy neighborhood!

There is also an abundance of art and impressive architecture. Public art displays including murals and statues make this area a great place for amateur photographers and Instagrammers. If you don’t have the budget to shop, there are plenty of free galleries and museums like the Institute of Contemporary Art!

What’s more, there are also a healthy variety of upscale culinary options to be found in the Design District. The restaurant scene is fiercely competitive with new restaurants popping up and opening their doors to hungry patrons that appreciate good food in a creative setting!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Wynwood Walls

• Why it’s awesome: See the work of talented street artists from around the world at this outdoor art museum.
• Cost: USD $55, or $39 for a tour with a local guide
• Food Recommendation: Grab some gourmet home-baked pastries at Zac The Baker nearby.

The next stop on our Miami itinerary continues with the creative artsy theme with a visit to Wynwood Walls. Wynwood was formerly an industrial neighborhood that rose to prominence as a hot-spot for graffiti and street art!

Today it is a hive of trendy boutiques, restaurants, galleries, and bars all thanks to the Wynwood Walls, an outdoor museum and open-air street art installation featuring some of the world’s most prominent street artists! The art covers more than 80,000 square feet of abandoned warehouse walls.

Since its establishment in 2009, Wynwood Walls has become a phenomenon, spurring the creation of more murals and projects throughout the Wynwood district. The exhibition now features the decoration of roll-up storefront gates, known as the Wynwood Doors, and an open green space installation featuring five murals known as the Wynwood Walls Garden.

The whole area is now saturated with bright, bold street art and colorful graffiti. A stop here is sure to get your creative juices flowing and will provide for plenty of Instagram inspiration!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science

• Why it’s awesome: Discover the magic of science and get in touch with nature at this purpose-built science museum.
• Cost: USD $30.
• Food Recommendation: Have a healthy snack or smoothie bowl at Almalibre Açaí Bar within a few minutes walk.

For a fun stop that the whole family can enjoy, we’ve added the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science to the Miami itinerary. This world-class science museum, located in Downtown Miami’s Maurice A. Ferré Park, is dedicated to sharing the power of science, sparking wonder, and inspiring investigation!

The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science has an incredible array of interactive experiences on offer, including a planetarium, an aquarium, and an experimental science lab! There are also additional exhibits to immerse yourself in. They rotate throughout the year ensuring there is always something new and exciting to see on offer.

The 250-seat planetarium provides an ultra-immersive experience with its cutting-edge visual system, one of only thirteen in the world like it! Guests are treated to journeys across the cosmos, educational entertainment, and spell-binding light shows.

The museum’s aquarium covers three levels and showcases the aquatic ecosystems of South Florida. Discover the creatures that live in the Everglades and see the drifters catching the Gulf Stream.

Insider tip: It is best to arrive early and take your time to get the most out of your exploration of this massive museum.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Perez Art Museum Miami

• Why it’s awesome: One of Miami’s premium art museums showcasing international art of the 20th and 21st centuries.
• Cost: USD $16
• Food Recommendation: Enjoy sweeping views of Biscayne Bay at Verde Restaurant & Bar located at the museum.

Thankfully, the next stop on the Miami itinerary is a mere 300-ft walk away, and is a must-do for art lovers even if you are only spending one day in Miami. The Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) is one of the latest additions to Maurice A. Ferré Park, and has been referred to as Miami’s first true world-class museum!

The building itself is a masterpiece of architecture. It’s three levels high with elaborate hanging gardens and amazing views over Biscayne Bay. Large sculptures, steel frames, and gardens- inspired by countries across Asia- adorn the property, setting the scene for the wonderful art you are about to encounter.

Inside is equally beautiful and breath-taking with galleries of modern and contemporary artworks from all over the world. PAMM is a major contributor to Miami’s status as a global destination for contemporary art. It beautifully highlights the diverse community of the city and Miami’s connection with the Caribbean, Central, and South America.

Much of the interior is dedicated to temporary exhibitions, showcasing work of substance and high quality by new and relatively unknown artists. The artworks relate to Miami’s multicultural population, which is evident in the diversity of people it attracts on a daily basis.

Insider tip: Admission is free every first Thursday of the month and every second Saturday of the month! If you’re visiting on a different day, it’d be worth getting the Miami City Pass for discounted entry tickets at multiple attractions.

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Miami Children’s Museum

• Why it’s awesome: Keep the kids entertained and treat them to a fun, interactive learning experience that allows them to grow their understanding of the world around them.
• Cost: USD $20
• Food Recommendation: Bring a picnic and relax in the gardens, or dine in style at The Deck at Island Gardens only a short drive away.

The Miami Children’s Museum is a great stop on the itinerary for families with young kids! Housed in an ultra-modern building on Watson Island, the museum’s mission is to educate kids about the world around them and to foster curiosity and a love of learning.

The museum has fourteen galleries spread over two floors, with plenty of interactive exhibits to spark every type of tot’s imagination. One of the most popular attractions is the cruise ship, where kids can try their hand at navigating a carnival boat and explore the different areas within a ship. The Health and Wellness Center gives kids a chance to flex their muscles while learning about the biological mechanisms of the body.

The museum’s interactive nature makes it feel like one big playhouse, almost hiding the fact that kids are learning as they move along. It does a good job of incorporating life in Miami with lots of space dedicated to learning about Miami’s landscape and multi-cultural inhabitants.

Insider tip: As one of the more popular Miami attractions, expect it to be busy whenever you visit and make sure you have enough energy to enhance the fun experience for your kid(s).

Day 1 / Stop 6 – Lummus Park Beach

• Why it’s awesome: It’s the tropical beach that you’ve seen on TV, where you can take a dip in the sea to cool off or relax under a palm tree.
• Food Recommendation: Head to Larios on the Beach for Cuban cuisine in a chic, lively space.

What better way to end the first day than a visit to the beach! Lummus Park Beach in Miami Beach is a typical Miami beach you’ve seen in movies and on TV.

It’s a perfect destination for people-watching, volleyball, sunbathing and swimming in warm sub-tropical water. This park beach features grassy areas with palm trees for those seeking shade, as well as a playground for young children and an outdoor gym for the more active visitors.

Walk along the beautiful promenade that separates the grass from the beach and have dinner or a cocktail at one of the many restaurants on the boardwalk. Lummus Park Beach is also a popular place for photo shoots among the dozens of lifeguard stands or palm trees that line the promenade.

Rock Hostel

Our top pick for a great hostel stay in is Rock Hostel in Miami Beach. It offers great value for money, tons of freebies, and a super-chilled beach vibe.

• Free Breakfast

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Miami Seaquarium | Vizcaya Museum and Gardens | Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden | Deering Estate | Zoo Miami | Venetian Pool

The second day of our Miami itinerary is a whirlwind tour of the outdoors and the best wildlife this city has to offer. This will make for a fantastic couple of days in Miami for outdoor enthusiasts!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Miami Seaquarium

• Why it’s awesome: Get the chance to watch a killer whale show, swim with dolphins, or get kissed by a seal at the biggest aquarium in Miami!
• Cost: USD$45 for a skip-the-line ticket
• Food Recommendation: There are plenty of concession stands inside the aquarium for something quick and easy.

Day two of our Miami itinerary starts off with a splash at Miami Seaquarium! Filled with intriguing marine invertebrates and large mammals, the Seaquarium guarantees a fun-filled adventure for the whole family.

The great thing about visiting an aquarium is that there are always new and interesting things to see and learn about. Along with having the usual touch pools and tropical reef displays, Miami Seaquarium also offers a host of exciting shows and encounters with larger marine wildlife!

The dolphin and killer whale shows are an absolute hit with the public and possibly the biggest draw for the aquarium! Watch Flipper the bottle-nose dolphin and Lolita the killer whale show their aerial prowess as they perform amazing tricks and flips under the guidance of their trainers.

You can also swim with friendly seals, explore the tropical tank with a dive helmet, have a close encounter with dolphins and penguins, and learn about the great work the conservation team does rehabilitating vulnerable sea turtles and manatees. A stop here is sure to get you energized and put a smile on your face!

Insider tip: Check out Groupon for discounted admission prices and experience packages.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

• Why it’s awesome: As a small oasis in the city, a visit to the museum and gardens is a good way to slow down and ease some stress.
• Cost: USD $22
• Food Recommendation: Enjoy a soup or a sandwich at Au Bon Pain, just a 5-minute drive down the road.

The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, located just a mile southwest of Downtown Miami, is a lavish former mansion with picturesque grounds, sculptures and grottos. It was originally built as an Italian Renaissance-style winter villa in 1916!

The house is now a museum containing much of the original furnishings and artwork from the 15th to the 19th century. This gives a good sense of the historical atmosphere of the time and is a key part of the experience. Spend a little more and opt for an hour-long tour led by one of the guides. It’s well worth the money for the extra information and anecdotes.

The gardens are just wonderful, and for many visitors is the highlight of the trip! They are well kept and provide many photo opportunities.

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

• Why it’s awesome: Discover rare and exotic tropical plants, get closer to nature, and unwind in a beautiful natural setting.
• Cost: USD$25
• Food Recommendation: Gaze over the picturesque Pandanus Lake and enjoy a light meal at the Lakeside Café.

The next stop on the Miami itinerary is the lush, verdant landscapes of Fairchild Tropical Botanic Gardens in Coral Gables. Spread out across 83 acres, these botanical gardens are one of the largest in the United States and among the world’s best tropical gardens!

With plenty of open space to explore, a multitude of plant species to find, and a generous amount of semi-hidden nooks and crannies to find solitude in, the Fairchild can easily be the most relaxing place in Miami! Take advantage of the free tram tour for a quick 45-minute highlights reel of the gardens to get your bearings, then head off on your own to explore at your own pace.

There are tropical plants from all over the world at the Simons Rainforest. Mangroves and other marshy plants are found in the Keys Coastal Habitat, and rare flowering plants are found in the conservancy. Visitors with green thumbs will be pleased to know there is an excellent book shop with all the latest books on gardening and horticulture.

Insider tip: Come prepared for the heat with hats, sunscreen, and water. Bug spray is also a good idea to combat mosquitoes.

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Deering Estate

• Why it’s awesome: A great place to explore historic buildings, ancient excavation sites, and partake in outdoor activities.
• Cost: USD $15
• Food Recommendation: Stop by Alaine’s Osteria for an early dinner of Italian cuisine.

The Deering Estate is a massive 444-acre environmental and archaeological preserve in the South of Miami with historic houses from the 19th and 20th centuries. The property is even listed on the National Registry of Historic Places!

There are daily tours of the old buildings, including the Stone House and Richmond Cottage, where you’ll be able to get a good look at the estate’s famous al fresco features! Tours of the lush, natural areas are available seasonally.

There are plenty of family-friendly outdoor activities offered around the estate including nature hikes, paddling, mountain biking, and butterfly walks. Excavations carried out on the property have uncovered the remains of prehistoric animals dating as far back as 50,000 years and evidence of human inhabitants from over 10,000 years ago!

For a different perspective of the estate, take a canoe tour of the estate if you are there over a weekend. There are also many other regular events that take place on the property including concerts, theatre, food festivals, art exhibitions, and weddings.

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Zoo Miami

• Why it’s awesome: Visit the only subtropical zoo in the US and see over 500 species of animals from all over the world!
• Cost: USD $23 for an upgrade ticket
• Food Recommendation: Enjoy a pizza or something more healthy at Nourish 305 within the zoo grounds.

Situated on a beautiful 750-acre property in South Miami, you’ll find Zoo Miami, the largest and oldest zoological garden in the state of Florida. Zoo Miami is the only subtropical zoo in the United States, with the unique climate enabling the zoo to accommodate a wide variety of animals from Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas!

There are over 3,000 animals from more than 500 species on display, and of these over 50 are classified as endangered. Some of the more popular animals include clouded leopards, Komodo dragons, ring-tailed lemurs, and tree kangaroos!

The petting zoo and wildlife shows are great fun for kids, and the giraffe feeding station is something the whole family can enjoy. When it gets too hot outside, spend some time in the air-conditioned rainforest-themed refuge, Dr. Wilde’s World of Discovery.

The easiest way to visit is by car, with lots of free parking available. You can also visit the zoo by catching the Coral Reef Max bus from the Dadeland South Metro Station.

Day 2 / Stop 6 – Venetian Pool

• Why it’s awesome: Large outdoor fresh-water pool boasting waterfalls, grottos, and a tropical backdrop
• Cost: USD $12
• Food Recommendation: Stop in at Tap42 Gables for a selection of great craft beers and gourmet burgers just a short drive away.

The Venetian Pool is a great place to visit on an energy-sapping, hot day! It was sculpted from an abandoned rock quarry in 1923 and is fed 820,000 gallons of fresh spring water each day.

This municipal pool is the largest fresh-water pool in the United States, and the only pool listed on the National Register of Historic Places. If you are interested, there is a nice collection of vintage photographs depicting beauty pageants and parties starting from the 1920s.

Its history and architecture make it a Miami point of interest, but the cool water and ample lounging areas make it a good place to hang out too.

Jungle Island | Little Havana | The Bayside Marketplace | Marlins Park | Miami Beach Botanical Garden

If you plan on spending more time in the city, don’t worry, there is still lots more to see and do! For your convenience, we have included extra points of interests for traveling in Miami to provide the perfect three day itinerary!

Jungle Island

• Enjoy the beauty of Miami’s tropical landscape and the uniqueness of animals from around the globe.
• Fun for all ages, you can learn about animals and plant species in a fun and engaging way.
• Guests can select from different tour packages to get an even more personalized experience with the animals.

Jungle Island is an eco-adventure park on Watson Island in Miami, Florida. This zoological park features waterslides, zip lines, escape rooms, and other fun attractions! It is home to some of the world’s most exotic animals.

Guests can enjoy engaging animal shows, informative exhibits, and behind-the-scenes access at the animal care center. Interact with sloths and lemurs, feed the tortoises and alligators, and pet a condor!

On this one-of-a-kind experience, you’ll get up-close and personal to loads of cool animal species! A trip to Jungle Island is sure to make for an unforgettable experience filled with animal encounters as well as information and insight into the park’s amazing creatures!

With much to see and do at this Miami attraction, you could easily spend a whole day here. Families traveling with children will especially love a trip to Jungle Island . Stroll under the lush canopies of tropical trees and enjoy the sounds of nature on this fun outing!

Little Havana

• Lively Cuban neighborhood full of art galleries, Latin eateries, live music, and more!
• Steeped in history, this high-energy neighborhood has something for everyone!
• Renowned for its fun ambiance, lively entertainment, and friendly locals.

Experience Miami’s Cuban community with a trip to Little Havana! This neighborhood is hopping with entertainment, art, and the most impressive food tours in Miami ! Discover the uniqueness of the Cuban culture as you stroll the streets of this trendy neighborhood.

You’ll find live music playing at all hours and the tastiest Latin American cuisine in town! Dance your heart out to live Salsa music, smoke a Cuban cigar, or enjoy a cup of Cuban coffee!

You could even catch a flick at Little Havana’s Tower Theatre! This theatre has been opened since 1926, a true cultural landmark of the city. Watch a show in this unique and historic Art Deco-style theater.

Head to Cubaocho for a unique experience. There’s never a dull moment at this museum, bar, and performing arts center! Take a salsa lesson, order one of their famed mojitos, or sample rum from the largest rum collection in Miami!

Experience the Cuban culture with a trip to Little Havana, one of Miami’s most colorful and vibrant neighborhoods!

The Bayside Marketplace

• A two-story open-air shopping center located in Downtown Miami.
• Family-friendly, clean, and well maintained.
• Plenty of shopping options to suit all budgets.

The Bayside Marketplace is a large, waterside shopping center loaded with stores, eateries, and sit-down restaurants. Located on the banks of Biscayne Bay, you’ll have breathtaking views everywhere you look!

This shopping center beckons visitors as a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment. You’ll find a diverse offering of local and international brands that guarantee something for everyone.

There are numerous eateries and restaurants to choose from. Whether you need a quick bite and a cup of coffee, a meal when taking a break from shopping, or a leisurely fine-dining experience, you’ll find a wide variety of choices available – all offering a spectacular view!

This is the place to book your boat tours in Miami. Numerous tour boat companies line the harbor awaiting visitors. Book a leisurely sightseeing cruise, a party boat experience, or a ride on a pirate ship!

If you’re spending a weekend in Miami make sure to check out the Bayside’s farmers-market every Sunday from 11:00 am – 6:00 pm. Purchase fresh produce and food provided by local merchants.

Marlins Park

• Home of the Miami Marlins, Florida’s Major League Baseball team.
• New stadium built in 2012 located in Miami’s Little Havana neighborhood.
• Spend a few hours cheering on the home team and enjoying the energy of game day!

Watch a baseball game at Marlins Park, which is fun for all ages! Enjoy a classic American experience and absorb the lively energy of game day!

This large ballpark offers comfortable seating all around the stadium. No matter where you sit, you’ll have an amazing view of the field. Enjoy the views of Miami’s skyline from inside the park. It’s truly spectacular!

There’s a retractable roof that can cover the whole stadium to counter uncooperative weather, guaranteeing a pleasant experience at every game!

Apart from watching a baseball game, there are many activities in the park before and during the game. Check out the virtual batting cage, the bobblehead museum, or take a guided tour of the stadium!

This ballpark serves an eclectic range of food items such as traditional ball-park food, Latin dishes, and Pizza! There’s, of course, plenty of Budweiser and craft beer! Providing fun for the whole family, a trip to the ball-park is a great way to spend an afternoon in Miami!

Insiders Tip: Check out Obie’s concession stand inside the park for USD $3.00 and USD $5.00 food and drink specials!

Miami Beach Botanical Garden

• 3-acre urban green space in Miami Beach.
• General admission to the garden is always free!
• Experience the local wildlife including birds, butterflies, and lizards.

The Miami Beach Botanical Garden’s are the hidden gem of Miami! From blooming flowers to colorful butterflies, this small slice of nature offers an idyllic escape from the busy city.

Peruse the garden’s many walking paths or have a picnic in one of the parks many shady glades. The natural beauty of the gardens makes it the perfect spot for a photo-opt!

Events are often hosted at the gardens, including yoga and meditation classes. There are guided tours scheduled daily and all the guides ask for is a donation of your choosing.

Their self-guided tour system allows visitors to learn about the plant species and the natural history of Miami Beach at their own pace. Simply dial the number provided at the park entrance or seen at each of the 13 stopping points of the tour.

The Miami Botanical Gardens offer a beautiful oasis and is the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature! It’s one of my top attractions in Miami Beach to visit.

Insider Tip: The Botanical Garden shares a parking lot with the neighboring Holocaust Memorial, making the two attractions perfect to visit together.

Miami is generally a very safe city to visit. Like any major city, crime can occur, but in general you should not have anything to worry about. There are certain areas of the city you will want to be extra vigilant, but as a whole Miami crime rates are low.

Miami Beach is considered one of the safest areas of the city. This tends to be a party destination for young tourists, especially during Spring Break, so you might encounter intoxicated college students.

Crime-wise, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about. As always, stay vigilant of your belongings, keep your wits about you, and you should be just fine.

If you’re visiting Downtown Miami you’ll want to keep an extra eye on your things. It is still a safe area but pickpocketing can occur. Many pickpockets are extremely skilled at taking belongings without being detected. Keep your valuables concealed and next to you at all times, especially in crowded areas.

The areas north of Downtown Miami you’ll want to stay away from, especially at night. Overtown, Liberty City, and Civic Center are dangerous for theft and drug-related violence. Avoid these areas and keep to the main tourist parts around Miami and you should be fine.

Miami is filled with a wonderful mix of culture and diversity. There are endless options for enjoyment in this high-energy Magic City. Get a taste of Cuban culture, enjoy the endless coastline, or discover the unique art-decor.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Miami

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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.

Explore more of Florida by choosing one of these fantastic day trips from Miami. Grab your camera and your favorite hat, because these excursions are seriously fun!

Rent a Private Yacht and Sail the High Seas

If you’re travelling with friends, it’s time to treat yourselves to the glitz and glamour of Miami highlife (just for a day, anyway). With space for up to 12 people, a captain to show you the best sites, and an optional jet-ski, why not spend a full 8 hours on the ocean by renting a private yacht , with the breeze in your hair and a cold beer at your fingertips. It may not be the cheapest day trip, but you’ll get to see Miami from a different perspective on the water. You’ll be able to stop wherever you please and create your own route. Don’t forget your sunglasses.

From Miami: Day Trip to Bimini

On this sixteen-hour trip, you’ll travel from Miami to the Bahamas! Spend the day in paradise as you discover Bimini’s pristine beaches and popular attractions! Sit back and relax on your two-hour high-speed boat transfer from the Port of Miami to Bimini.

You’ll have a day pass to the Hilton at World Resorts in Bimini where you’ll be able to make full use of this hotel’s outdoor facilities. Rent a jet ski and explore the ocean, dine beachside, or relax on the warm sand with a drink!

Relax as you are transported to the hotel. Then, enjoy a stop at the famous Bimini Road, which some believe is a remnant of the “Lost City of Atlantis”. You’ll have approximately seven hours to enjoy this beautiful island in the Bahamas ! Spend the day basking in the sun and enjoying exciting aquatic activities!

This tour offers complimentary pick-up at select hotels in Miami Beach and Downtown Miami. This day-trip is the perfect addition to your Miami itinerary!

From Miami: Day Trip to Key West by Shuttle Bus

This fifteen-hour tour will take you from Miami to Key West. Discover the southernmost tip of the United States on this convenient and accessible day-trip!

Enjoy a stop in Florida City for breakfast before continuing on. Upon arrival in Key West, you’ll be given a map of the city to help you plan your day, and your bus driver will fill you in on the city’s key highlights. You’ll have six hours of free time to explore the areas of the city that most interest you!

Spend an afternoon in leisure! Relax on a tropical beach, explore the Old Town, or unwind at the Key West Nature Conservatory! For aquatic enthusiasts, snorkel in the crystal blue waters surrounding the island. The day is yours to enjoy however you’d like!

Key West is connected to the mainland by an extensive system of bridges. Enjoy panoramic views of the ocean as you travel over the water!

This day-trip includes complimentary pick-up and drop-off at select Miami hotels.

Florida Everglades Small Group Adventure Tour

Get back to nature on this nine-hour tour of the Florida Everglades. Spend the day learning about the unique Everglades ecosystem as you travel by boat around the region. Learn about the flora and fauna from your knowledgeable tour guide.

Travel by airboat to a Native American island village, go for a hike in the Big Cypress National Preserve, and learn about wildlife from a naturalist perspective! Witness native bird and animal species in their natural environment where you may spot white pelicans, manatees, and dolphins!

Discover a historic trading post where you’ll visit an art gallery showcasing the local talent. Then, feast on a lunch made of local produce! This comprehensive tour is perfect for nature-lovers or people wanting to escape the city for a day. Enjoy the thrills of nature on this exciting day-trip!

Disney World Full-Day Ticket & Transfer from Miami

On this eighteen-hour day-trip, you’ll be able to enjoy a full and exciting day at your choice of Walt Disney World Resort . This trip takes the stress out of transportation by including round-trip bus service from Miami and back!

Sit-back and relax as you’re taken from your hotel to Disney World directly! Choose from one of the following parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot Center, MGM Studios, Animal Kingdom, Blizzard Beach, or Aquatica.

You’ll have six hours to spend in the Disney resort of your choice! Included in the ticket price is your transportation and entrance fee into the park. Perfect for all ages to enjoy a day-trip to the happiest place on earth!

Miami: Kennedy Space Center & Outlet Shopping

On this fourteen-hour trip, you’ll spend the day discovering the Kennedy Space Center and enjoy a stop at a large outlet mall!

Learn about the history of the United State’s space program at one of the most scientifically advanced places on Earth! The Kennedy Space Center is home to NASA and has been the launch site for various space programs since the 1960s.

Admire real-life space shuttles and learn about the history of the Saturn and Apollo space programs. Enjoy the interactive exhibits, IMAX movies, and the US Astronaut Hall of Fame. Learn about man’s quest to explore space on this fully guided tour!

Next up you’ll head to a large outlet shopping mall. Stroll around and hunt for name brands and bargains. The perfect chance to pick up all your Florida souvenirs! You could also grab a drink and a bite to eat at a restaurant nearby.

This tour is fun and educational, perfect for all ages and a great way to spend a free day in Florida!

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…)

Find out what people want to know when planning Miami itinerary.

How many days do you need in Miami?

This really depends on your travel plans, but spending 3 days in Miami is ideal if you’re looking to see all the sights!

What should you include on a 4 day Miami itinerary?

Don’t miss out on these Miami hotspots: – Wynwood Walls – Design District – Vizcaya Museum & Gardens – Lummus Park Beach

Where should you stay if you have a full Miami itinerary?

Downtown Miami is the ideal base for exploring the city as it’s central and full of things to do.

Where should you go if you have 1 day in Miami?

Make the most of your time by exporing Downtown, and be sure to check out one of Miami’s famous beaches!

Miami is bursting with historic landmarks, fun attractions, and natural beauty, which makes it an enjoyable exercise when putting together a Miami itinerary! We have included the top-rated activities and even more incredible stops, depending on your length of stay.

It doesn’t matter whether you are there for a long time or a short time, even if you only have one day in Miami, you are sure to have a good time! Use our Miami itinerary as a guide, choose the activities that best suit your trip, and then have a blast exploring the streets and beaches of this sub-tropical paradise!

For your convenience, we have included the best places to stay in Miami, places to visit, all the best landmarks in Miami, some advice for staying safe, and the best day trips from Miami!

We know that our guide will help to ensure that you have an amazing trip!

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

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How To Spend One Week In Miami

If you plan to spend a week in Miami (or maybe longer!) here’s 12 things you need to check out.

We all know it from movies and postcards, but Miami is exactly how I expected it to be. And possibly even better. I visited last October, with my best friend ( Truth: We flew there to see a Christina Aguilera Concert – no regrets! )

I was also working in my company’s Miami office for most of the days I spent there. But I still found enough time to explore to.

Miami is more than just beaches and palm trees, although it does have a lot of that too. There are so many fun things to do, it’s so colourful, and the people are incredibly welcoming. If you’re spending one week in Miami, you have plenty of time to see all sides of this diverse city.

Naturally, like most cities, there are less picturesque and less safe parts of the city. But we stuck to the main tourist spots and had an incredible time.

So, this is my ultimate list of things to do during one week in Miami.

Things To See During One Week in Miami

South Beach

No list of things to do in Miami for a week would be complete without the iconic South Beach.

South Beach was more beautiful and less tacky than I had expected. For the majority of the beach there are fences or trees separating the strips of hotels and the sand. This means that while you’re on the beach, you feel like you could be anywhere, and certainly not in a major cosmopolitan city.

As well as topping up your tan and rolling your eyes at the many Instagram photo shoots happening along the shore, be sure to check out as many unique lifeguard hut as you can. They are all different colours, shapes, sizes. (And the life guards themselves come in super handy when you get a jellyfish sting, haha!)

Ocean Drive

Another icon of Miami, is Ocean Drive. The strip runs parallel to the beach and feels a little bit like you’ve been transported back into the 50’s.

Walking along Ocean Drive should be part of your one week in Miami intinerary at least once. If you have the time, try to visit it during both the day and at night.

During the day, there are tourists and locals eating and drinking on the sidewalk, enjoying the sunshine and some retail therapy.

At night, Ocean Drive comes alive in neon lights, DJs and the restaurants become bars. If nightlife is on your list of things to check out during your week in Miami, Ocean Drive is the place for you.

Everglades tour

No, this is not technically in the city. But it’s still a perfect way to fill one of your days during your week in Miami.

There are a number of Everglades tours, that depart from the South Beach area either in the morning or afternoon, and take you out for a few hours on a boat tour to explore the more natural side of Florida.

I’m not usually a big fan of organised tours, or animal tourism. But this is by far the best way to see the Everglades in a short period of time. You can see alligators in their natural habitat swimming among the marsh, and enjoy the surprisingly thrilling experience of an Airboat.

Book in advance onto one of the many tours available on Viator.

Paddle Boarding

If you follow me on Instagram, you already know that I love paddle boarding. I recently discovered it in the last few years, and it’s my favourite thing to do while travelling to hot places.

Paddle boarding in Miami allows you to see a different part of the water.

It’s the best way to explore the harbour area, while gazing longingly at the incredible mansions surrounding the bay.

Miami has some of the best weather all year round. As a sun worshipper, and Scottish person, I couldn’t come to Miami without spending a day by the pool soaking up the sun.

Whether your team pool or team beach, there is definitely benefits to both. And a pool day is the perfect way to relax, enjoy Miami is weather and avoid all the hassle that comes with lying on the sand.

If America does one thing well, that’s brunch. And Miami is no exception. Check out hundreds of gorgeous bunch spots around Ocean Drive, Brickle and Downtown.

I didn’t try enough to write a blog of my own about it. So here’s a list of Culture Trip’s best Miami Brunch spots .

Wynwood Walls

Another iconic Miami thing to do, is to spend an afternoon admiring the Wynwood area, and the streets and streets of art. Check out my full blog here for Wynwood wall in pictures.

Be sure to go while there is still lots of daylight, for your own safety and also for optimal picture taking opportunities.

Little Havana

Little Havannah is a fun neighbourhood in Miami that’s well worth a visit. Wondering through the streets in this area you’re transported to the nearby (but challenging to reach) Cuba. The local restaurants serve traditional Cuban cuisine, and at night the bars come alive with music and dancing.

Now it’s possible that if you’re not in Miami for a business trip, you may never enter Brickle. But don’t overlook it. Brickle is predominantly the business zone, but boasts some gorgeous waterfront bars and restaurants. It’s also the shopping hub, if you want to get your retail therapy on.

I had no idea this little gem existed until I got to Miami. Bayside is just beyond Brickle and is a harbour area, shopping mall and great place to grab some food. We enjoyed sitting in a Cuban restaurant and eating lunch whilst enjoying the boats and the ocean view.

This is also the place to come if you fancy a bit of a thrill. There are plenty of speedboat tours and party yachts departing from here to take you out on a tour.

Sunset Point

Right at the very end of South Beach, lies sunset point. This harbour area is, as you would guess, the perfect place to enjoy Miami’s sunset. Standing on the dock, you can enjoy the picture perfect scene of the yachts silhouetted on the backdrop of Miami’s Downtown and Brickle areas.

An absolute must do during your week in Miami for all romantics and sunset lovers.

Biscayne Bay

Separated by a bridge from the main strip of Miami, lies Biscayne Bay. Accessible by bus or taxi (we used Uber a lot in Miami because it was pretty cheap and things are quite spread out). Biscayne Bay is a wonderful thing to do in Miami if you’re staying for a few extra days.

The vibe is very different to the buzz of South Beach. Lying on the sand surrounded by palm trees, you truly feel like you’re at the edge of the world. There is a gorgeous lighthouse at one end of the bay. And while we were there we witnessed a beautiful beach wedding on the stunning backdrop.

There aren’t many food outlets or things to do on Biscayne Bay, so pack supplies before you go and enjoy the beauty of doing nothing.

And there you have it! 12 things to do in one week in Miami (or maybe even longer!)

More Blogs To Help You Plan Your One Week In Miami

• How to Find Cheap Accommodation
• How To Spend A Day At South Beach
• Miami Bliesure Guide
• 50 Ways I Can Afford To Travel The World
• Solo Travel As An Introvert
• Packing Hand Luggage Only

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Four Seasons at the Surf Club in Miami

Courtesy of Four Seasons

With a new crop of world-class hotels, a fast-evolving dining scene, some of the most picturesque beaches in America, and a place on the global art-world stage, Miami has grown by leaps and bounds in the last few years. Read on for two equally satisfying ways to experience Magic City.

Where To Stay

The Four Seasons Hotel at the Surf Club

When it opened in 1930 as a private club in a Mediterranean Revival building, the Surf Club was a draw for such celebrities as Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra, and Ava Gardner. Today, the North Beach retreat is home to The Four Seasons Hotel at the Surf Club, which opened in 2017. The modernist haven was reimagined by Pritzker Prize–winning architect Richard Meier, who added three towers for the hotel’s 77 guest rooms and 150 residences. Paris -based Joseph Dirand designed the spacious, neutral-toned guest rooms, where cerulean ocean views are framed by floor-to-ceiling windows. Dirand peppers his minimalist aesthetic (Connemara marble from Scotland in the bathrooms) with rustic details reminiscent of a beach bungalow (rattan coverings on the doors). Miamians flock here to dine on ingredient-forward pasta dishes at the first and only outpost of Le Sirenuse —the iconic hotel and restaurant from Positano, Italy—or the Continental menu at the Surf Club Restaurant by Thomas Keller, the renowned chef’s first Florida dining concept.

Price Tag: $900

Eating & Drinking

The eclectic Wynwood Arts District, famous for its colorful wall murals and Brooklyn-esque vibe, feels like the perfect location for Kyu, the pan-Asian restaurant that Chef Michael Lewis and General Manager Steven Haigh opened in 2016. That’s because Kyu attracts an equally diverse crowd, which ranges from twentysomethings celebrating birthdays to entrepreneurs doing business. Take a look at the menu, and it’s no small wonder that Kyu manages to have such broad appeal: There are beef short ribs for meat lovers, tuna tartare paired with crispy fried rice for fish aficionados, and a to-die-for roasted cauliflower in a bed of goat cheese for vegetable obsessives. The evenings in the industrial, art-filled dining room can get sceney and loud, while lunchtime is a serene (and much quieter) affair.

Price Tag: Lunch, $130 for two

There are plenty of places to see and be seen in Miami Beach—and Watr at the 1 Hotel Rooftop is one of the best spots if you want your tropical cocktails and beautiful people to come with a side of ocean views. Set on the 18 th floor of the 1 Hotel in South Beach, the neutral-on-white decor provides a cinematic setting for sundowners. The cocktail menu channels the tropical vibe of Miami: The Pink Toucan has hibiscus-infused light rum with crème de noyaux and a splash of coconut water and lemon, and the Ultima Palabra “Slushy” combines mezcal, Chartreuse, Luxardo, and fresh lime. Pair them with items from the Japanese-Peruvian menu—maybe the short rib tostadas, the Parmesan-crusted scallops, or the hamachi tiradito.

Price Tag: Bites and cocktails, $120 for two

Sweet endings at Stubborn Seed

Courtesy of Stubborn Seed

Stubborn Seed

The only drawback to winning a season of Top Chef ? The extra scrutiny on the newly minted celebrity chef when they open their first solo restaurant. But when Jeremy Ford debuted Stubborn Seed in late 2017, the Florida native charmed skeptical locals at first bite. Ford—who named the restaurant after his own grit and audacity, to which he attributes his success—turns out bold shareable plates from the open kitchen of his hip, concrete-walled South Beach restaurant. While Stubborn Seed’s menu is ever-evolving, recent standouts include celery root with crackling maitakes, American Wagyu beef cheek with Alba white truffle rice grits, and local wahoo fish with snow peas, passion fruit, and a psychedelic green-and-white swirl of habanero yogurt. It’s set to a sound track of vintage rock, which keeps the mood casual and fun.

Price Tag: Tasting menu, $350 for two

Tuna tataki at Kyu in Miami

Photo by Rashida Sol

Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

If you grow weary of the Art Deco architecture and white-sand beaches that make Miami famous, make haste to the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, located in Miami’s historic, bayfront Coconut Grove neighborhood. A 38,000-square-foot house originally built in 1914 as the winter retreat of a businessman named James Deering, Vizcaya is decorated with a nod to both Italian Renaissance and Baroque architecture styles. The grounds on Biscayne Bay include 10 acres of landscaped orchid- and fountain-filled gardens and 25 acres of endangered native forest. Interiors are filled with frescoed ceilings, stained glass windows and doors, and rare antiques—some of which date back to Renaissance Italy.

Price Tag: $44 for two

Insider Pick

Private boxing lesson at the 5th St. Gym

It’s hidden in plain sight behind a sex shop in South Beach, but that’s the beauty of the 5 th St. Gym , a relatively under-the-radar spot for some of the best boxing talent in the country. This is not the place you go for a hyper-sleek, eucalyptus-scented boutique fitness experience. This is a place where real champs train—and while you can (quite literally) smell the sweat of countless hours of training, there’s an energy and an authenticity here that make it an electrifying place to fulfill your pugilistic fantasies. The gym opened in 1950, and it has been the training grounds for celebrities, including The Beatles, Frank Sinatra, and, most notably from the pro fight world, Muhammad Ali. You can book a private lesson with co-owner Dino Spencer, whose clients have included Adriana Lima, Christopher Walken, and Michael Phelps. The gym recently started offering lessons in martial arts ranging from Muay Thai to Filipino weapons and empty hand systems.

Price Tag: $175

Bottom Line: $1,894 per day for two people

Generator Miami

Courtesy of Generator Miami

Generator—a European hotel brand that’s created design-minded, hybrid hotel-hostels for grown-ups—is proof that you can have stylish digs without blowing your budget in Magic City. Opened in Miami in 2018, the 105-room Generator Miami is centrally located in South Beach along Collins Avenue, and it’s just 100 feet from the shoreline. The hotel got its Miami-inspired look from Argent Design, a London-based group that outfitted the hotel’s modern interiors with touches such as Art Deco–inspired furnishings and palm trees. The hotel offers shared rooms for $25 a night (including women-only rooms), but even the private rooms with en suite bathrooms start at a budget-friendly $95. No more rooms left? See what’s available at the Generator’s elder but equally hip (and equally affordable) sister hostel, the Freehand , located just three blocks away on Collins Avenue.

Price Tag: From $95

Take Out at Joe’s Stone Crab

Of Miami’s seafood institutions, Joe’s Stone Crab is one of the most famous, expensive, and hardest to get into—à la carte stone crab claws still start at $45 and king crabs start at $90, and you can blow $150 on Royal Ossetra caviar. But few travelers know that there’s a time and budget-friendly loophole at this casual South Beach spot, and it’s the take-out counter. Try the Miami Beach Omelette with stone crab ($14) or the stone crab bisque ($12). If you don’t mind ordering something that’s not of the sea but equally delicious, try the fried half chicken, only $7. Take your meal to the beach, just a few minutes away on foot, or snag a seat at the bar next to the restaurant.

Price Tag: From $30 for two

1-800-Lucky

Yes, you can drop $55 on an entire Peking duck at 1-800-Lucky, a 10,000-square-foot temple to Asian food in Wynwood. But you can also hem in your budget and stick to such items as the tonkotsu -broth ramen (a more budget-friendly $16). Flexibility is the beauty of this multi-concept space: Visitors who arrive strictly for the eating will not be disappointed: Local restaurateurs Sven Vogtland, Alan Drummond, and Gaby Chiriboga have brought in a handful of buzzy international Asian restaurant concepts from Japan to New York City. And those who are simply looking to have a big night out with friends can sip on a taro slushie while rocking out to hip-hop with the DJ in the courtyard till the wee hours of the night. For amateur crooners, karaoke rooms can be rented for a $50 deposit that can be split among friends.

Price Tag: From $32 for two

Garcia’s Seafood Grille & Fish Market

For a casual waterside spot with fresh-caught seafood, look no further than Garcia’s Seafood Grille & Fish Market, a Miami institution for more than 50 years. Garcia’s seafood is some of the best in the city, thanks to the fact that the restaurant sources a lot of its own seafood with its own fleet of fishing boats. At their two-story, indoor-outdoor restaurant, father-son duo Luis Garcia and Esteban Jr. know how to turn out simple, ingredient-focused dishes such as octopus, snapper, or mahimahi—all grilled, blackened, or fried to perfection (consider the stone crab if it’s in season, between October and May). Some of the best seats in the house are upstairs, where wooden tables offer up views of the Miami River and the yachts that pass through it.

Price Tag: Entrées, from $70 for two

Vizcaya Museum & Gardens in Miami

Courtesy of Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

Institute of Contemporary Art Miami

For years, the ICA was housed in a temporary space until it finally opened in its new, permanent Design District digs in time for Art Basel in 2017. Today, the museum is more than double the size of its previous location in the nearby Moore Building. The 37,500-square-foot space, a sleek, metallic cube designed by Madrid-based Aranguren + Gallegos Arquitectos, houses up-and-coming international artists and local emerging voices. They’re juxtaposed with established voices from both the 20 th century and today, including Pablo Picasso, James Turrell, and Tracey Emin. Be sure to take a walk through the sprawling sculpture garden, home to works including late artist George Segal’s famous Three Figures and Four Benches (1979), a study of urban social worlds composed of life-size plaster figures sitting on park benches.

Price Tag: Free

Azucar Ice Cream Company

The heart of Miami’s Cuban culture can be found along bustling Calle Ocho—a must for visitors to Magic City. And if you find yourself there on a sweltering day and are in need of a pick-me-up, look no further than Azucar Ice Cream Company. (You can’t miss it: On the facade of the shop, there’s a larger-than-life sculpture of a five-scoop cone.) Here, Cuban American owner Suzy Batlle showcases formulas passed down to her by her grandmother. There are a range of signature and seasonal flavors inspired by Miami: platanos maduros (sweet plantains), the café con leche (Cuban coffee with Oreos), Key lime pie. The Abuela Maria is a perennial hit: It’s a whimsical blend of vanilla ice cream with cream cheese, guava, and Maria cookies.

Price Tag: $10 for two

Bottom Line: $237 for two

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Flights & transport:, itinerary focus:.

• Wake up to Christmas Day in the beautiful Florida Keys
• Ring in the New Year partying in New Orleans' French Quarter
• Spot exotic wildlife on an Everglades swamp airboat ride
• Unique overnight stay in a chickee cabin in the Everglades
• Drive the famous Route 1 Overseas Highway to the Florida Keys
• Enjoy beach time at Destin on the Gulf of Mexico
• Hear live music & enjoy legendary nightlife on Bourbon Street

Birding in the Everglades, Florida Keys and Dry Tortugas

• Explore Everglades National Park and the famed Anhinga Trail to search for Herons, Osprey and Egrets
• Venture to the coastal fortress of Dry Tortugas National Park to view warblers, Peregrine falcons, Sooty Terns and more! 
• Scour the skies in Bahia Honda State Park, a tropical paradise that supports a spectacular array of birdlife

Keys and Everglades: Human and Natural History Outdoor Studies

• Learn about Florida Keys ecology as you explore Dry Tortugas National Park and two state parks
• Enjoy a special visit to Biscayne National Park
• Delve into evidence of 10,000 years of human history, from pirates and shipwrecks to farmers and presidents

The Holidays in Key West: A Sunny Take on Christmas Traditions

• Experience the protected natural areas of the Keys, including a visit to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the country’s first undersea park
• Key West’s colorful history comes alive on visits to the Overseas Railroad Museum, the Custom House and Ernest Hemingway’s home
• Enjoy the unique artistic and holiday traditions of sunny Key West, including an expert-led walk through Mallory Square

Signature City Miami

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• Whether walking through historic neighborhoods at a moderate pace or out and about on a coach, I prefer to keep my days full
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Keys, Everglades & Dry Tortugas: Human History & Outdoor Study

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The Haute Seeker

How to spend one week in miami.

If you are looking for a winter escape, there is no better place than Miami. Miami is a beautiful city with great weather, clear water beaches, and of course, lots of places to party. Miami is a city that has plenty of things to which makes it the perfect place for your next vacation, celebration, [...]

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Ultimate Miami Itinerary Ideas for first time visitors

Miami is one of the most popular cities to visit in the USA . Tourists from all around the world have Miami on their bucket list.

The city is famous for its laid-back vibe, amazing beaches like South Beach, Wynwood murals, and warm weather. 

The city of Miami is also home to amazing neighborhoods. 

South Beach is popular for people watching and its art deco architecture whereas in Little Havana, you can enjoy and understand the Latin American culture. 

Fun fact: Our first introduction to Miami was in the TV series ‘Dexter’! While the series is known for its thrilling storyline, we were more enamored by the relaxed and casual vibe of Miami and Miami Beach. 

And then of course there is high end shopping and amazing nightlife in Miami Beach.

The city is the best place to let your hair down and enjoy a weekend away. 

Here is a detailed Miami travel guide that makes the most of this amazing city.

Spend anywhere from a day to three, Miami has enough attractions to offer for all kinds of travelers. 

Dotted Globe contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read my full  Disclosure  here. Thank you!

Also Read: Best Beaches to Camp in the USA

How many days to spend in Miami?

How many days should you plan the Miami trip?

If you want to see the highlights, then 3 or 2 days in Miami are enough.

Miami attractions are close to each other and can be easily seen over a weekend.

Fun Fact: Downtown Miami and Miami Beach are actually two separate cities linked by the causeway! They even have separate mayors and governments. Don’t worry, you can definitely see them both on the same trip!

In this post, you will find the best Miami trip itinerary ideas for every type of traveler from Miami 2 day itinerary to an extended Miami Florida Keys itinerary.

Miami Itinerary Ideas

If you are tired of continuously running around in the theme park in Orlando, and then drive down to spend a fun-filled, relaxing beach weekend in Miami.

See the attractions in downtown Miami, people watch on South Beach, take an Instagram worthy photo with Wynwood murals, then take an airport ride in Everglades National Park – all with our ultimate itinerary for Miami Florida! 

Or drive down the overseas highway to party in Key West.

Most Popular Miami Tours to book now! Miami to Everglades National Park Transport + Airboat Tour Miami Original Millionaire’s Row Cruise Miami City Bus Tour + Everglades Day Trip Wynwood District Street Arts Tour Little Havana Food Tour + Cultural Attractions

Miami is also an amazing place to explore other popular attractions in southern Florida.  

If you love the outdoors, then go snorkeling or windsurfing or hire a fishing charter.

There are also several hiking trails near Miami. 

3 Day Miami Itinerary

Miami is one of the most popular cities to visit in Florida and receives over millions of visitors every year. 

While some come here for just a day or two, we recommend spending at least 3 days in Miami and Miami Beach area to see the most popular tourist attractions including South Beach, Wynwood Wall, and Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. 

Here’s our ultimate itinerary to enjoy the best things to do in Miami in 3 days and explore its unique vibe. 

Day 1 in Miami

On Day 1 in Miami, see the top favorite attractions in Miami. 

Start by visiting the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Downtown Miami then end the day in South Beach / Miami Beach.

Have lunch on Espanola way and admire the art deco historic district. 

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is the former estate home of businessman James Deering, of the Deering McCormick-International Harvester fortune. 

This sprawling mansion is located on Biscayne Bay in the Coconut Grove neighborhood of Miami, Florida and is a must visit when in the city.

The landscape was influenced by Tuscan Italian Renaissance style while the house was designed in the Mediterranean Revival style of architecture. 

The blend of styles creates a truly unmatched architectural gem in South Florida that is hardly rivaled today anywhere else in the greater United States!

The estate and surrounding area consist of 50 acres with the villa and the botanical garden located at its heart.

The remaining landscape is made up of native jungle forest. 

Buy Vizcaya Museum tickets now !

The 10-acre garden blooms with beautiful plants and orchids every year and draws in thousands of visitors.

On a tour of the villa’s museum, you can walk through more than seventy rooms displaying artistic interiors and decorated with numerous antiques. 

The antiques and decor place an emphasis on 15th through early 19th century European style furnishing and art.

The stunning design and unique beauty of Vizcaya is why in 1994 the estate was designated as a National Historic Landmark. 

And since then, it has remained one of America’s most popular and also most beautiful museums and is a must-stop on any Miami trip .

South Beach, Miami Beach

South Beach is arguably the most recognizable neighborhood in all of Miami!

With a nickname like the ‘Sun and Fun capital of the world’, it is easy to figure out why!

South Beach was the first part of the greater Miami beach development and has grown into a popular tourism hub since then. 

It has a huge array of fantastic attractions and sights available for anyone that visits this area and is perfect for everyone including friends, families, couples, and solo travelers.

The South Beach area is famous for its white-sand beaches like South Pointe and Lummus Park, which are said to be the best beaches in Miami Beach city. 

Also Read: Best Beaches in the USA

The stunning skyscraper dotted Miami skyline is located behind the beach and makes for picturesque photos. 

The colorful lifeguard stations on Miami Beach are brilliant pieces of Art Deco style and design and one of the most Instagram worthy locales in Miami.

In the South Beach area, you will find a variety of popular nightclubs as well as some of the world’s best restaurants. 

You can easily spend hours getting lost exploring popular districts of Miami Beach like Lincoln road which has excellent shopping and art galleries.

South Beach is the beating heart of Miami beach culture.

Its vibrant atmosphere and glamorous nightlife scene make it the perfect stop on your Miami itinerary for 3 days. 

South Beach is especially popular in winter, making Miami one of the best winter sun destinations in America .

Ocean Drive and Art Deco architecture

The Easternmost street of Miami Beach, Ocean Drive is the symbolic center of Miami and is an iconic tourist attraction due to its beautiful art deco architecture.

Ocean Drive is the heart of the historic Miami art deco district .

It features a huge variety of architecturally impressive hotels, restaurants, and bars that attract thousands of visitors every day. 

The majority of art deco buildings in Miami Beach were built between the Great Depression and the early 1940s so any stroll through this historic district will have you feeling like you took a step back in time.

Visit the iconic 1939 Colony Hotel which is known as one of the most photographed art deco buildings in the world.

It has been featured in scores of movies and TV shows. 

See South Beach Arts Deco architecture on Segway Tour ! Don’t want to see all on your own? Try a Segway in Miami. Families, kids, couples all love the guided hour long Segway tours that let you see the best of South Beach and Ocean Drive in Miami. Book tickets now !

Or stop by the Sunray Apartments, another famous Art Deco building, which has been immortalized as a filming location in the cult classic Scarface.

Other popular buildings include the Raleigh, Delano, and National hotels.

You can even go on a guided Art Deco tour of the area. 

The beautiful designs of this neighborhood as well as its atmospheric nature are what make it a perfect stop on the first day of your Miami 3 day itinerary. 

Espanola Way

Española Way resembles the romantic small towns found in Europe. 

Here you will find cobblestoned streets and a charming atmosphere.

It is eclectic and bohemian and quintessentially Miami!

Espanola Way has its origins as an artist’s colony.

Today, the area has grown into a popular dining spot and has a unique mix of restaurants, bars, sidewalk cafes, and boutiques. 

Dining here is delightful. It’s the perfect match of really good food, people watching, and romantic ambience.

Visitors love spending hours here, exploring through the one of a kind stores, shopping for souvenirs and trinkets, and discovering a truly different part of Miami during your 3 day itinerary.

Day 2 in Miami

This day of Miami 2 Day itinerary is for soaking in Miami’s vibrant culture and indulging in some shopping. 

Enjoy a slice of Cuba in Little Havana and then admire the murals in Wynwood Arts District.

And the day window shopping and people watching at the Bayside Marketplace. 

Little Havana

If you want to know the roots behind the Cuban culture and history that is ever present in Miami, visit Little Havana. 

Thousands of Cubans that fled to America after the country’s 1959 communist revolution built this neighborhood and shaped its unique identity.

Miami Little Havana is truly the perfect slice of Cuba.

Visitors will find Latin American culture and relaxed way of life in its streets. 

Time seems to stop here – you can spot the locals playing dominoes sipping on local coffee!

Some of the must things to do in Little Havana? 

Enjoy delicious Cuban cuisine, drink a Cuban coffee, visit Azucar Ice cream for exotic flavors such as guava and avocado, and see the famous landmarks such as the Latin walk of fame.

You will also take a variety of culinary and cultural tours in Little Havana.

A must is the tourist hotspot of Calle Ocho which is home to the Domino Park and the historic Tower Theater. 

Little Havana neighborhood tours Little Havana Food Tour This 3 hour long tour will take you through history of Cigars and Caribbean music in Calle Ocho to tasty Cuban delicacies and drinks. Little Havana Food + Street Art Tour Enjoy mojitos, Cuban coffee + sandwich, street art, culture, history, and more in the ultimate guided tour of Miami’s most popular neighborhoods. Little Havana Walking Tour The walking tour is perfect for those interested in learning about the area’s history, cuture, art, and attractions that have shaped Calle Ocho.

Also notice the giant colorful roosters that are present all over Calle Ocho.

Take a photo with the Welcome mural and spot other murals in the area.

If you can, attend the Calle Ocho Music Festival, the largest Latin music festival in America.

Little Havana is definitely a must on the Miami itinerary of 2 days.

Wynwood Walls

Love street art? Visit Wynwood Walls on your 2 day Miami itinerary! 

Wynwood Miami is one of the greatest outdoor graffiti and street art museums in the world. 

At Wynwood Walls, you will find an impressive amount of street art and murals on a variety of thought provoking and intriguing topics. 

Besides the murals, Wynwood is also home to numerous eateries, art galleries, and retail stores.

Looking at the hub that is Wynwood today, it’s hard to imagine that this area was a ghetto in the 1990s!

Visit the Market place area and enjoy unique food vendors as well as watch some of the live shows which are so prominent in the district. 

If you are lucky enough to visit on the second Saturday of every month you can enjoy the Wynwood Art Walk.

Or take a guided Wynwood District Street Art Tour on a golf cart!

The entire Wynwood Business Improvement district turns into a late-night street party and arts festival where a variety of food trucks set up and live music plays well into the early hours of the morning. 

Bayside Marketplace

The number one most visited attraction in Miami the Bayside Marketplace. 

This two-story open-air shopping center is located on the banks of Biscayne Bay adjacent to the Miami Marina.

Here you can shop to your heart’s content for a variety of apparel, trinkets, souvenirs, and home goods. 

Beware – the stores here are high end brands, so if you want a budget friendly trip then keep to window shopping!

The marketplace also has excellent views of boats and yachts. You can also take a boat tour.

Then try some of the best seafood in all of Miami for lunch.

Perez Art Museum

End your day at the Perez Art Museum which is located near the Bayside marketplace and Bayfront Park. 

This is one of the largest contemporary art collections in the world with over 2000 pieces available for visitors to view!

The museum building itself is equally stunning and one of the most popular Instagram spots in Miami.

Views of the water from here are also relaxing.

This museum is an important part of the art and culture scene in Miami and is a must-stop on any 3 day Miami Itinerary.

Miami Design District

Miami design district is a must visit if you love fine dining or high and shopping. 

In this neighborhood you will find a plethora of art galleries, public artwork, showrooms, antique stores, gastropubs, celebrated restaurants, and more. 

Art lovers should go to the Institute of Contemporary Art located here.

The sculpture garden is especially stunning. 

Those who love taking photos for the ‘gram, should head to the Fly’s Eye Dome sculpture.

Take a walking tour to see the amazing artworks spread throughout the district. 

Day 3 in Miami

On your last day, you have a couple of options.

You can either visit Everglades National Park and see the mysterious Coral Castle on the way. 

Another option is to take a day trip to Key Biscayne.

Combine it with spending the day swimming at the pool in Coral Gables! 

If you have kids, then consider spending an entire day at the zoo! 

We have tried to include brief information about each of these popular attractions in Miami. 

Everglades National Park

One of Miami’s most popular day trips!

Everglades is the largest tropical wilderness in the United States.

This 1.5-million acres wetlands preserve on the southern tip of Florida is a natural treasure. 

The vast Everglades landscape consists of coastal mangrove forests, sawgrass marshes, and pine Flatwoods. 

It provides a nourishing habitat for many of Florida’s unique animal species including the famous gators.

Also Read: Best National Parks to Visit in the USA

The best way of seeing the Everglades is an airboat tour.

You can easily spot many species including alligators, manatees, otters, turtles, and raccoons. 

Best Everglades Tours from Miami Everglades Airboat Tour + Wildlife Show Miami Everglades Combo: City Tour, Airboat Tour, Miami Cruise Miami to Everglades Day Trip with Airboat Tour Miami to Everglades Half Day Tour

You can also spot birds such as blue herons, ospreys, egrets, and hawks.

The Everglades is a UNESCO world heritage site and a must-see for any visitors to Miami, hence why it is one of the most popular locations on our 3 days in Miami itinerary.

Coral Castle

Coral Castle , known as Florida Stonehenge, is an enigmatic tourist attraction.

Eccentric Latvian American artist and engineer Ed Leedskalnin single handedly built the attraction using numerous megalithic stones each weighing several tons.

Part of the castle’s attraction mystery relates to its construction; Ed moved and placed the heavy monoliths without any heavy machinery!

Legends say that Ed figured out the secret of the pyramids and used it to build Coral Castle.

On a guided tour of Coral Castle, you can learn more about Ed, his life, and inspiration behind the castle.

Key Biscayne

Key Biscayne is the ultimate day trip from Miami. Just take the scenic causeway to the island and you are in for a treat. 

This small town in Florida is located on a barrier island.

It is home to beautiful beaches, mangrove forests, and a variety of wildlife including shorebirds and seabirds, sea turtles, and butterflies.

Here you will also find attractions such as charming neighborhoods, an aquarium – the Miami Seaquarium, restaurants, and even hotels if you want to extend your stay. 

The views from Key Biscayne are some of the best in Florida. 

Coral Gables

The city of Coral Gables is located just four miles away from Miami.

Coral Gables boasts stunning Mediterranean Revival style of architecture.

It is most famous for the impressive Venetian Pool, built in 1920s, in an abandoned coral rock quarry.

The Venetian Pool caters to hundreds of visitors every day!

Other things to do in Coral gables include the Merrick House, Fairchild tropical botanic gardens, and the Lowe art museum. 

The townhomes and houses inside the gated community are very pretty.

Another must is the colorful Umbrella alley.

The Miami-Dade Zoological Park and Gardens, better known as the Zoo Miami is one of the best things to do in Miami for families. 

The zoo has many animal species such as giraffes, zebras, big cats including lions, tigers, and apes such as gorillas monkeys and chimpanzees. 

Kids can also see a variety of birds including flamingos as well as otters and crocodiles. 

Besides the animal attractions, the zoo also has many extra amenities such as a boat ride and a monorail tour of the zoo. 

Here’s a tip: wear your best walking shoes and carry a bottle of water as you’ll be easily spending 2 to 3 hours to see the entire zoo. 

2 Day Itinerary Miami

If you want to plan 2 Days in Miami itinerary, the just focus on Downtown Miami and Miami Beach area.

Marvel at the beauty of the Wynwood murals, and explore the streets of Little Havana.

Visit a museum of your choice: Vizcaya Gardens or Perez Art museum are both excellent attractions!

End the day admiring the views and window shopping at Bayside Marketplace.

Next day, have lunch on Espanola Way, see the art deco buildings on Ocean Drive, and relax on South Beach.

Enjoy the famed nightlife in Miami Beach before heading back home.

Miami Itinerary 4 Days

Alternatively, you can also see Everglades + Coral Castle on one day and Coral Gables + Key Biscayne on another if you want to plan a Miami Itinerary of 4 days.

Other fantastic day trips from Miami include St Augustine, Fort Lauderdale, and Palm Beach.

To read about them all, see our post Best Day Trips from Miami. 

Also Read: Best Places to Visit in America

5 Day Miami Itinerary

If you have more than the minimum 3 days in Miami, then consider driving down to Key West.

The Florida Keys road trip is amongst the best road trips in America – visitors can easily do it in 2 days. 

Here are a few essential stops that you need to make on this epic Key West road trip.

This works best if you want to plan a Miami Itinerary for 5 days.

Key Largo is the first island of the Florida Keys and a must stop on your Key West drive.

It is the ultimate tropical paradise and has a host of tourist activities for all kinds of travelers. 

Take a glass-bottom boat tour through the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

You can spot many of the marine mammals that call this part of America home including rare sea turtles. 

Explore the mangrove waterways by a kayak or just unwind and relax on the stunning sandy beaches.

Key Largo is also one of the most popular scuba diving locations in the world.

Here you can dive into the world’s largest artificial reef, the 510-foot USS Spiegel Grove. 

Visitors can plan a customized cruise for scuba diving or snorkeling in Key Largo.

Take a boat cruise on the famous African Queen boat. 

Key Largo is a dream tropical destination and is a perfect addition to any Florida Keys Itinerary. 

Known for its stunning coral reefs and comprising 6 keys, the village of Islamorada is a popular tourism destination.

It has a beautiful tropical vibe and many tourist attractions.

Here you can visit the Theatre of the Sea marine park and swim with bottlenose dolphins and Californian sea lions. 

Or stop by the History of Diving Museum and marvel at unique relics and exhibits that showcase the evolution of diving.

Take time to walk amongst the virgin tropical forests of the Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park or take a boat tour out to the Indian Key Historic State Park which holds a host of 19th-century ruins from a long-abandoned ghost town.

Islamorada is also home to the Morada way arts and cultural district.

Here you will find several art galleries and studios as well as participate in art walks. 

Marathon Key consists of 13 islands in the Florida Keys and is known for its beaches and barrier reef.

Highlight of a visit to Marathon – view Loggerhead turtles’ nests at Coco Plum Beach! 

Visit the Curry Hammock State Park and walk along its sandy shoreline.

Go to the Dolphin Research Center to see interactive shows and swim with dolphins in a shallow lagoon.

Stop by the Marathon Marina and visit the Crane Point bird-rescue center and natural history museum. 

Here you can view dozens of unique tropical bird species and learn about the amazing biodiversity of the Florida Keys.

Marathon is a nature lover’s paradise and is the perfect stop on any Miami itinerary.

Seven Mile Bridge

Your 5 day Miami itinerary will take you over the impressive Seven Mile Bridge that connects the Middle keys to the Lower keys and is one of the world’s modern engineering marvels.

The views from the Seven Mile Bridge are fantastic.

You can see the Atlantic ocean and the Gulf spread around you.

Plan your drive at dusk to see one of Florida’s most amazing sunsets. 

This bridge makes the drive from Miami to Key West one of the most scenic drives in the US. 

Bahia Honda State Park

The Bahia Honda State Park provides the perfect day out experience on your Miami itinerary.

Calusa Beach, located inside the park, is one of the best beaches in the country. 

Visitors can enjoy some of the best scenery in Florida right from the shore.

Hike up to see the Old Bahia Honda bridge or see the beautiful butterflies in the butterfly garden. 

Kayak off the coast from palm-lined beaches in crystal clear water and spot stunning marine life including colorful fishes and stingrays. 

The park is an excellent place to observe unique shorebird species and you can rent boats here and head out for a day of diving at the reefs in this beautiful State Park. 

The island city of Key West is Florida’s southernmost point and lies just roughly 90 miles north of Cuba. 

Key West is famous for its vibrant atmosphere and pastel hued conch style houses.

It is a popular stopping destination for cruise ships and diving enthusiasts.

On your Key West itinerary , you can visit the Southernmost Point Buoy which marks the southernmost point in the continental United States. 

Stop by the former home and now a museum for the legendary novelist Ernest Hemingway.

Visit the bustling Mallory Square and enjoy its famous sunsets. 

Visit the historic Fort Zachary Taylor to mix some American history with a day at the beach.

Take a walking tour of Old Town and shop for souvenirs on the seaport. 

There are also many things to do in Key West with kids including the Shipwreck Museum, lighthouse tour, and the Key West aquarium.

Key West is in many ways the beating heart of the Florida Keys and it’s a must see location on any 5 day Miami itinerary. 

Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas National Park is located in the Gulf of Mexico west of Key West.

This is one of the most remote and least visited national parks in America. 

The park comprises 7 islands as well as a protected coral reef.

The area is home to beautiful beaches as well as the historic 19th-century Fort Jefferson.

Loggerhead Key has a lighthouse and sea turtle nesting location.

To reach Dry Tortugas National Park, you need to take a NPS managed boat tour from Key West. 

If you are a diving enthusiast make sure to visit the nearby Loggerhead Reef which is home to the Windjammer Wreck, a sunken 1875 ship. 

One Day in Miami Itinerary

For those who want a one day in Miami itinerary or planning a day trip to Miami!

Start by seeing the iconic neighborhood of Little Havana and the splendid murals at Wynwood in Downtown Miami.

Cross the causeway and see Ocean Drive and the Art Deco buildings. 

Dine in Espanola Way then head to South Beach.

Spend time relaxing on the sand and see the gorgeous sunset, then enjoy Miami’s famous nightlife, restaurants, and coffee shops to end the perfect day.

This Miami Itinerary of 1 day is hectic but lets you enjoy the best of Miami in a few hours.

Start the day early to make most of your time. 

Where to stay in Miami

While you visit Miami, stay in the Miami Beach area.

You will be close to the nightlife, swaying palm trees, pristine beach in Miami, world class restaurants, and public transport to get around Miami.

Our favorite hotels in Miami near Ocean Drive include Avalon Hotel Miami, The Colony Hotel, and the excellent Clevelander South Beach Miami Hotel.

We hope you liked our Miami itinerary.

Did we miss any amazing spots? Let us know in the comments. 

More Southern Florida destination guides

Here are additional resources to help you plan your Miami trip:

22 Most Romantic Things to do in Miami for Couples

Miami to Key West Drive: 25 Best Itinerary Stops

3 Days in Key West Itinerary

Best things to do in Key West with kids

Best Museums in Key West, Florida

Dry Tortugas National Park Visitor Guide

Ultimate Florida Road Trip Itinerary

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Miami International Airport (MIA) has three terminals: the North, Central, and South. Moving walkaways connect all the airport's terminals and concourses and can be accessed from the third level of the terminals. It takes about 15 minutes to move from one terminal to another.

Where can I access a hotel shuttle at Miami International Airport (MIA)?

Hotels near the airport provide shuttle services to travelers. The airport has been designed to designate specific areas for the shuttles to pick up and drop off passengers. You can pick them up at Arrivals Level 1, just outside the baggage claim area, from doors 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 15, 20, and 23.

How far is the Port of Miami from Miami International Airport (MIA)?

Port of Miami is 8.4 miles from the airport. You can take the pre-arranged cruise line transportation from Concourse J or D. Otherwise, you can either take the MIA Mover to Miami Central Station from where you will board the City Trolley to get to the port or a taxi.

How do I get from Miami International Airport (MIA) to Miami Beach?

The Miami Beach Airport Express Bus runs every 30 minutes from 6 a.m to 11:40 p.m. every day of the week. A one-way ticket costs around $3 and is certainly one of the cheapest and most convenient ways to get straight from the airport to the sandy shore.

Can I store my luggage at Miami International Airport (MIA)?

Yes, you can store your luggage at Miami International Airport (MIA). The baggage storage room is located on level 2 of Central Terminal E and is open every day from 5 am to 9 pm. To use the services, you must have proper documentation such as a driver's license, birth certificate, or passport. The daily storage costs are determined by the size of the luggage, with the minimum price at about $6 for bags measuring 0 to 1.5 feet and the maximum price at about $19 for bags measuring 4 to 10 feet.

Is there a hotel in Miami International Airport (MIA)?

Yes, there is a hotel directly inside Miami International Airport (MIA). Miami International Airport Hotel is located inside the airport terminal in Concourse E. The hotel also offers day stays from 10am to 6pm at discounted rates. For business travelers, there is a conference center which has both conference rooms and boardrooms available for your business needs.

Does Miami International Airport (MIA) have facilities for children?

Miami International Airport (MIA) has Plane Fun, an interactive and exciting play area for children. It’s located in Concourse E, near Gate E5 and accessible from Concourse D as well.. Aside from the games found here, the play area features multiple educational exhibits for kids of all ages.

What is there to do at Miami International Airport (MIA)?

Miami International Airport (MIA) offers plenty to do while you wait for your flight. Enjoy a yoga room in Terminal H, several art galleries and exhibits throughout the airport, beauty treatments and spas, an array of shops and a wide variety of restaurants.

How far is Miami from central Miami?

Central Miami is 6 miles away from Miami.

What is the name of Miami’s airport?

Miami is served by Miami, also commonly referred to as Miami or Miami Intl. The airport code is MIA.

On average, a flight to Miami costs $332. The cheapest price found on KAYAK in the last 2 weeks cost $25 and departed from Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Airport.

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• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Miami flight deals.
• Miami International Airport (MIA) is the primary airport serving the Miami area and is one of the largest hubs for Latin American flights to and from the U.S. As the largest airport in Southern Florida, it is a great airport option for travelers looking to visit destinations like Key West and the Everglades.
• A secondary airport option for travelers looking to vacation in South Florida is Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) . FLL is located just over 30 minutes north of Miami and is often a cheap alternative to flying to or through Miami, especially if your final destination is not Miami itself. Additionally, FLL has shuttle buses that can take you to a number of popular destinations like South Beach and the Port of Miami.
• Miami International Airport (MIA) is big and busy, attracting many travelers and tourists. When you need assistance navigating your way, visit the information counters located throughout the terminals. These counters provide language assistance, offering translation and interpretation services if needed.
• Miami International Airport (MIA) is well-serviced by public transport and is easily accessed by Metrorail, Tri-Rail, Metrobus and the Miami Beach Bus. If you want to avoid dealing with parking and traffic, then public transport is certainly a good option for travelers on their way to or from MIA.
• Miami International Airport (MIA) offers dedicated spaces for adults and children with various disabilities to relax and take a break from the airport environment. The Multi-Sensory rooms are open seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. and are located in the South Terminal, post-security, near Concourse J. Additionally, you can find the rooms post-security in Concourse D, next to checkpoint 4, and in the H-J connector.
• Miami International Airport (MIA) offers convenient options for passengers to transport their luggage. Self-service luggage carts are available at all terminals, parking areas, and inside the Federal Inspection Services enclosures. Renting a cart costs approximately $7. Alternatively, skycaps are also available to provide assistance to passengers.
• Miami International Airport (MIA) provides indoor and outdoor relief stations for travelers with service animals. These stations can be found in various locations, including Terminals D, E, F, G, and J. The relief areas are equipped with amenities like fire hydrants, artificial grass, and sinks. Moreover, all of MIA's relief areas have dual surfaces and waste disposal stations, ensuring convenience and cleanliness for travelers and their service animals.
• Miami International Airport (MIA) has set up a unique memorial called the Wall of Honor to remember the military men and women from South Florida who have died serving in the war against terrorism since September 2001. The wall, which features over 100 names, can be found at Concourse D in the departures area.
• One of the perks of a flight to Miami is the quick and immediate access to authentic Latin American cuisine . Miami International Airport (MIA) offers arepas, croquetas, and many other traditional Latin American snacks at its numerous restaurants.
• Unlike most airports, Miami International Airport (MIA) provides water refilling stations . You can refill your water bottle at the following locations: pre-security, near Door 6 on the Arrivals level 1, and at Baggage Claim Carousels 22 and 26. For post-security, stations are available at Concourse E after the security checkpoint, the H-J Connector center, and Gates F8, G6, J7, and D20.

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public website still broken for years randomly blocking browsers with privacy options active after loading a page maybe once. check-in on laptop was almost impossible but eventually randomly worked. had to print pass at airport since couldn't get back in to load digital pass on mobile firefox or chrome. red eye flight so smooth onboarding, plenty of room to spread out, easy offboarding. onboard wifi instructions mention vpn can cause problems connecting but fails to also mention private dns. no printed or built in menu list, seems weird to require personal device to point at qr code link for menu which does not even allow direct ordering. people with health condition risk related dietary restrictions trying to avoid for example cholesterol and sugar are left guessing what they can order either way without nutritional info highlights (cranberry juice was minute maid cocktail with as much suger as typical can of soda). tap to pay wasn't working and always seems sketchy to manually enter card info. good movie variety, so limited tv was okay.

Bathroom broke, had to rush to board because of late exit of previous flight

Boarding super slow with people allowed to linger in aisles

There were choices for the snacks. Good choices and tasty lunch and breakfast as well.

First time travel in economy and the worst experience I ever had ! Shame on paying 600 dollars to be in a tuna can ! Service was terrible no even water no even class no even matters your flight attendants were lazy and sloppy very bad experience! After all these years traveling in first and once I try this cause I need to go to a destination for an emergency wow shame on you !

Everything was smooth and easy to fly. No complains and a lot of thanks!

More space in the cabin. The guy in front of me leaned his seat back and I felt he was sitting in my lap.

We checked one bag. That was fast and the agent was fast and super nice. At the gate, boarding was fast and efficient. Flight was uneventful which was great because it was early in the morning and most folks were sleeping. Landing was great. Delta does a really good job of making the flying experience better all around considering you are sitting in such a small space on a plane for several hours. Flight from ALT to Panama City was short and uneventful as well. No entertainment but no need since it was such a short flight.

The announcements about boarding were unclear and har.d to understand I almost missed the flight even though I wa in the boarding area. .

Pricing of seats is difficult - price transparency has disappeared. First class, business class. Comfort plus, economy, basic…. Especially the pricing of seat reservation. Used to be but early get a better price; now it seems prices are falling as we get closer to departure. Miles ticket value has gone away. Give me a break. Everybody is playing the game of upselling and delivering lower service. When demand drops, so will the game of price gouging, but we’ll see.

This was a Lufthansa flight. Disappointing main meal. Very rough over Canada and arrival at FRA. IFE was almost unusable.

It got me where I needed it to; not much more. It had no competition so that was why I chose it.

I liked everything about the flight. The service was excellent!

The customer service was excellent! Check-in, baggage check-in, boarding, the flight went very smooth.

The flight was delayed instead of leaving at 11 it left at 12.20

United WiFi is consistently unusable (it can take 10 mins to load a single web page). If you need Wifi to do work, be prepared to lose half a day of productivity.

We waited to takeoff for about 1 hour delay for a 20 min flight.

Positive: Entertainment via phone on the short was great and my first time. Good food and wine and head phones for free. Negative: Seat hardly reclined on the long flight. Breakfast was an egg with a bun. No egg choices and rather have something sweet like bun/jam and Youghurt.

Awful. I got stuck next to a person carrying a dog and behind someone with a dog. People need to board these dogs downstairs. The cabin is crowded enough with your pets

The flight was canceled. Got rebooked to Chicago and when we arrived our luggage where to there. They were going to our original destination the day after. They would not deliver them to our house. We had to go pick them up.

We are gluten free, there were not any available complimentary gluten free options.

Lots of weather delays that were poorly communicated and managed. I get there are weather delays but they didn’t make it clear what was happening or comfortable on the plane

Me and my husband experienced very bad in American Airlines. We missed our flight going to Doha. The American Airlines was delayed we arrived already 10:27pm. Supposed to be 9:40 pm. So what they did they rebooked our flight and they gave us a hotel. When we arrived at the hotel the front desk said it was fully booked already. Oh my gosh! I said why did you accept the booking if it's fully booked. The guy said that's American Airlines they just book even it's already full. That's 2am already, we have nothing to do so, we decided to go another hotel. We pay the room, food and taxi. Pls give an action on this matter. Refund our expenses and give us more compensation. Not only our room, food, taxi but also our efforts, tiredness looking for a room that can accommodate us.

No meal on a cross country flight? SFO-MiA is pretty much the definition of a coast to coast flight. No meal provided. Sky high wi-fi rates too. Stop nickel and diming your customers.

Absolutely filthy flight and not equipped for a trans US

The male steward shoved me hard when i sleeping on the isle, woke me up the only way incan descripe it was Violently. I wanted to cause a scene but was able to putnmy anger innch check, i want complain to AA

Good over all but my flight from. Miami to Barbados the airplane was very dirty like I have never seen before. It looked like that plane hasn’t been cleaned in a long time and I fly about one time a month.

Everything was very good EXCEPT the food, on a five and a half hour trip. They only gave to us was snacks in first class. They didn't give us pillows or blankets.

Very disappointed with the crew and the lack of attention given to the passengers. On a 5 hour flight they never offered a snack. One time offered a beverage and didn’t pick up the used cups until the flight was on final approach. The two flight attendants in our section mentioned that they were best friends and compared their pre flight shoes. When paying for first/business class there is a level of service that should be expected. These two spent the majority of the flight in their seats playing on their phones and laughing with each other. Very frustrating!!!

Both flights were delayed. One by an hour and the other by 1 1/2 hours after boarding.

My experience was above excellent!!!! First the lady that pushed me in the wheelchair to the gate was outstanding!!! Then the ladies at the gate went over and beyond, by helping me fill out the immigration form! I would not have been able to get to Guatemala without their help!!! God bless them all! They were amazing 🙏❤️🙏

First....my trip was from Ft. Myers to Philly (not the other way around). Plane was clean, staff was friendly and flight was efficient with boarding and flight time. Thumbs up all around.

Early departure and arrival. Cabin very cold. Waited a while for luggage to come out

The no frills ticket price. The seats are very uncomfortable.

My flight experience was OK. The crew are friendly. The Flight was smooth. One thing that didn’t sit well with me was when I was checking in from RSW to head to Nashville the ticket agent told me I didn’t have a seat assignment and asked if I wanted to upgrade to first class for $50. I said no. I was placed in the third row middle seat. Upon taking off the flight attendant asked if anyone wanted to move. He specifically mentioned the third row was the worst because the lack of legroom. There were 70 open seats on the flight. Just wondering why with 70 open seats the ticket agent would place me in a middle seat in the worst row.

Flights are great except for the ticketing service on the terminal.. Too little employees taking care for lots of flights.

The airplane was extremely hot the air conditioner wasn’t working I

Seats horrible. No way of getting comfortable . But flight ran smoothly

The flight and the crew was good. I was surprised that you had to pay for a snack and drink But overall everything was fine. Thank you for getting us here safely

Actual CLT experience was rough. I've never seen the airport as bad in regards to security lines and wait. (For not being a holiday) A lot of folks missed their flight this morning. Spirit is fine. But wasnt offered a beverage somehow. No worries but some how I missed it.

Flight delayed 3 times, resulting in late arrival, rental car place gave car away resulting in increased BS charges because I was late. Frontier blows.

It was impossible to change a carry-on for a checked bag after the initial selection. The flight was delayed 14 hours "to allow for a late arriving aircraft." The seats were shockingly uncomfortable. This was only the second time I've seen seats that didn't recline in an airline. The first was in an East Bloc airline before the fall if the Iron Curtain.

First time flying Frontier, I am not sure the Ala Carte menu of options is for me.

I liked getting off the plane. Everything else was well below standards. Not even offering a bag of peanuts for free for a 4 hours flight is ridiculous.

There was no wifi, there was no usb charger on the planes Frontier lowered the weight limit on suitcases from 50 to 40 pounds Frontier now charges for a seat...really? If i don't pay for a basic seat, do i stand the whole flight? Frontier now charges for the carry on, just like for the checked suitcase The bundle pricing is way over priced.

Bought seats on the flight and they were supposed to be 2 and a jumpseat. Plane clearly changed and it was a regular 3 seat row. Asked for a refund and was denied. If I wanted to sit next to someone else I wouldn't have bought the seats..

Flying frontier reminded me of flying with my family in the 80’s in all of the worst ways possible. From poor customer service to little to no technology. The plane was dirty old and also stuck in the 80’s. From their seatbelts to not having anywhere to charge our phones the seats and the equipment I wasn’t sure if I was being punked or thrown back in time. Needless to say I don’t see myself flying frontier ever again.

Everything was on time and smoothly run. All employees appeared happy and enjoying their job. The delay in take-off was unrelated to anything in Frontier’s control. I wish there were a caffeine-fee, sugar free soda drink option besides water. There are multiple zero sugar caffeine free options.

Everything was on time and smoothly run. All employees appeared happy and enjoying their job. The delay in take-off was unrelated to anything in Frontier’s control.

I like that the flight was not overcrowded, and I felt had space to spread out a little more. The flight was smooth for the most part no major turbulence. The crew was pretty good accommodating and professional.. the fellow passengers were cool as well… all good! Snacks always makes things better, but of course there were no snacks.

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East and Southern US , Florida , North America · December 21, 2022

The Perfect One Week Florida Road Trip Itinerary

Florida is the perfect state for a road trip. There is so much to do with pristine beaches, crystal clear springs, metropolitan cities, amusement parks, Everglades National Park, and so much more! Keep reading to discover the perfect one-week Florida road trip itinerary.

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One Week Florida Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Miami

• Check into hotel

Lunch at Havana 1957

Afternoon airboat tour, relax at south beach, dinner in little havana, check into your hotel.

Depending on when your flight lands and when check-in is available, you’ll want to get settled into your hotel.

The Goodtime Hotel is a trendy boutique hotel in Miami Beach that is close to restaurants, shops, and the beach.

The hotel features a pool and the Instagram-worthy Strawberry Moon cafe. Guests will also have access to free bikes and beach chairs.

For a taste of Cuba, head to  Havana 1957  on Espanola Way.

Enjoy Cuban sandwiches and fried sweet plantains in a tastefully decorated space that is reminiscent of 1950s Cuba.

The eastern edge of Everglades National Park is only about a 25-minute drive from downtown Miami.

Here you will find Coopertown Airboats , the first tour operator to take guests on guided airboat tours through the Everglades.

Tours last about 45 minutes as you glide along the “river of grass”.

The tour guides know where the gators like to hang out so your chances of seeing alligators are very high.

You’ll also learn some interesting facts about the Everglades and see other wildlife and plants that are unique to the area.

South Beach is the most iconic beach in Miami and is located only a short distance from the Goodtime Hotel.

After your airboat tour, take some time to relax on the sandy shore, pose for photos with the brightly colored lifeguard stands, and visit the shops at the nearby Espanola Way.

Little Havana is a colorful Cuban neighborhood that boasts a vibrant nightlife.

Check out the shops and stands lining Calle Ocho (SW 8th Street) in the heart of Little Havana.

Then stop in at the  Versailles  restaurant for some traditional homemade Latin dishes.

Their signature dish is the Cuban sandwich with yellow rice, beans, and plantains on the side. A few other popular items include empanadas, croquettes, and caramel flan.

For more things to do in Miami, check out our guide How to Spend 48 Hours in Miami .

Day 2: Key Biscayne and drive to Orlando

Breakfast at donut gallery diner.

• Boating at Biscayne Bay
• Lunch at Rusty Pelican

Afternoon at Key Biscayne

Dinner at delray beach, drive to orlando and check into your hotel.

Start your day off in the quiet residential community of Key Biscayne.

Key Biscayne is one of Miami’s barrier islands that can be reached by crossing the Rickenbacker Bridge.

Stop in at the Donut Gallery Diner for their famous “Ted Special” that made Thrillist’s list of the ’50 Things You Need to Eat in Miami Before You Die’.

This small family-owned diner has been a neighborhood favorite for the past 50 years.

Explore Biscayne Bay

After breakfast, rent a boat or take a boat tour to explore Biscayne Bay.

If you’re interested in renting a boat,  Boatsetter  is like the Airbnb of boat rentals and has a variety of boats available to rent.

If you prefer a guided boat tour of the bay, try reserving a spot on a  vintage yacht , or take a  millionaire home tour  for only $30!

You can also take a relaxing sightseeing boat tour or a thrilling speed boat sightseeing tour .

Whether you are renting a boat or taking a tour, you’ll want to check out Star Island. This man-made island is home to celebrities and some of Miami’s wealthiest residents.

Be sure to take a cruise up the Miami River that cuts right through downtown.

Stiltsville is also an interesting place to visit.

It is located at the southern end of the bay where you’ll find a collection of derelict buildings that once housed some of Miami’s hottest social clubs back in the 1930s.

There are also several sandbars in Biscayne Bay that attract throngs of people on the weekends.

Lunch at the Rusty Pelican

The Rusty Pelican is a popular waterfront restaurant. It is conveniently located at the Rickenbacker Marina so you can pop over for lunch after your boat tour.

They serve fresh seafood, including tasty crab cakes, calamari, and fried snapper.

The Rusty Pelican Board is also a great option to sample different foods.

After lunch, spend some time exploring Key Biscayne.

Relax on the white sand beaches at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park and take a tour of the Cape Florida Lighthouse.

You can also visit the abandoned ruins of the Crandon Park Zoo, buy local produce and gifts at the farmers market, rent bikes and explore the Bear Cut Preserve, or take a snorkel tour to see a sunken ship at the Half Moon Archaeological Site.

For more information and recommendations, see our guide 4 Fun Things to do in Key Biscayne .

Later in the afternoon, hit the road for the 3 1/2 hour drive to Orlando.

On your way, stop in Delray Beach and grab a bite to eat at Lulu’s Cafe & Cocktails.

This trendy neighborhood cafe is located in the design district of Pineapple Grove.

Try the Steak Sandwich or Buffalo Chicken Sandwich with a fresh salad or bowl.

Delray Beach is a charming beach town that was voted Most Fun Small Town by USA Today in 2012.

If you have more time to spend in the area, check out the shops on Atlantic Avenue or walk along the elevated boardwalk at Wakodahatchee Wetlands and look for alligators.

You can also snorkel through a sunken steamship at Delray Wreck, or play unlimited retro pinball games at the Silverbell Museum.

Drive to Orlando and check into your hotel. If you want to stay by Disney’s Magic Kingdom, I would recommend staying at Disney’s Contemporary Resort .

If you want to stay by Universal, consider Universal’s Aventura Hotel .

Both hotels include perks to the parks like early access an hour before the parks open. Universal hotel guests even get complimentary Express Passes.

Day 3: Disney World’s Magic Kingdom

You can’t come to Orlando and NOT visit Disney World! You’ll definitely want to set aside a day to spend at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.

You could easily spend an entire week at Disney World, but there’s so much more to see on a seven day Florida road trip so we just planned for one day.

Plan to arrive early for rope drop, and be sure to purchase the Genie + Lightning Lane Passes in order to make the most of your day.

For more help planning your time at Disney, see our guide Magic Kingdom Tips & Tricks .

And if you’re looking for food recommendations in the park, see our guide for the Best Snacks at Disney’s Magic Kingdom .

Day 4: Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando is much bigger and better than the one in Hollywood, so you’ll definitely want to spend at least one day here!

If you want to get the full Harry Potter World experience, you’ll need to purchase a two-park pass to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.

Islands of Adventure is home to Hogsmeade while Universal Studios is home to Diagon Alley. Guests with a two-park pass can hop aboard the Hogwarts Express to visit both lands.

If you only have one week on your Florida road trip, then it’s possible to do both parks in one day.

However, if you have extra time then it would be ideal to spend two days at Universal so that you’re not rushed.

For more help planning your day, check out our guide Wizarding World of Harry Potter Tips & Tricks .

Day 5: King’s Landing and drive to Gulf Coast

Grab a bite to eat at the world’s largest mcdonald’s, afternoon kayaking at king’s landing, drive to the gulf coast and check into your hotel.

After going hard at amusement parks for two days, you’ll want to sleep in and have a slow morning.

Before heading out of Orlando, stop at Epic McD located at 6875 Sand Lake Rd. Orlando, FL 32819 and grab a bite to eat.

This two-story 19,000 square foot McDonald’s is the largest McDonald’s in the world. It also features a menu that’s different than any other McDonald’s you’ve ever been to.

In addition to the standard burgers and fries, you can also order wood-fired pizza, customized pasta dishes, and even a slice of three-layer chocolate cake!

The Play Place is also bigger and better than your typical McDonald’s. It even includes an extensive arcade area with over 100 games!

After you eat, drive about 25 miles northwest of Orlando to Apopka.

Here you’ll find Rock Springs, one of the most beautiful natural springs in the state.

Rock Springs Run is often rated as the top paddle run in Central Florida and it has even been designated as a National Wild and Scenic River.

King’s Landing is the launch site that gives access to the Rock Springs River. You can either take a guided tour, rent a kayak, or launch your own kayak.

The kayak trip is absolutely beautiful as you follow along the crystalline waters, paddle under tunnels of trees, and stop at the stunning Emerald Cut.

For more details and information see our guide Tips for Kayaking at King’s Landing Florida .

After you finish your kayak trip, hop in the car and head to the Gulf Coast.

The drive across Central Florida to the Gulf Coast takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes, so you’ll want to stop and grab a bite to eat along the way before checking into your hotel.

We chose to stay at the Marriott Residence Inn at Treasure Island and I would highly recommend it!

It sits right on the beach and is centrally located to various Gulf Coast destinations.

The beach in front of the hotel is a popular nesting ground for sea turtles. If you’re lucky you may catch the hatchlings emerging from their shells and making their way to the ocean at night.

Just be sure to always keep your distance and never disturb their nests.

Day 6: Clearwater, Honeymoon Island, and Tarpon Springs

Spend the morning at clearwater beach.

Head to Clearwater Beach and start your morning off with a Cinnamon Bun French Toast from Clear Sky Cafe.

Spend some time playing in the waves or sunbathing at this pristine beach.

Walk along Pier 60 to spot dolphins, stop in at Hulk Hogan’s Beach Shop, or visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium which was once home to Winter from  Dolphin Tale.

Many tour operators are also located at the Clear Water Beach Harbor.

Consider taking a dolphin tour on Little Toot , board a Pirate Ship for some swashbuckling fun at sea, or take a leisurely cruise on a catamaran.

For more details and recommendations, see our guide 7 Things to do in Clearwater .

Make a stop at Honeymoon Island

As you head further north, make a stop at Honeymoon Island.

Honeymoon Island State Park is located on a barrier island about 20 minutes north of Clearwater and is considered one of the best state parks in Florida.

The name comes from a businessman that purchased the island in the late 1930s and constructed 50 honeymoon cottages as a destination for newlyweds.

While on the island, be sure to stop by the Rotary Club Centennial Nature Center to see photos of the cottages.

Bike rentals are also available at the Nature Center where visitors can bike along the Osprey Trail. The trail leads through one of the last remaining virgin slash pine forests in Florida.

You can also take a 20-minute ferry ride from Honeymoon Island to the remote Caladesi Island.

The island can only be reached by water and boasts 3.5 miles of white sand beaches and mangroves.

Lunch at Tarpon Springs

The last destination of the day is Tarpon Springs.

Tarpon Springs dates back to the early 1900s when it first became known for its thriving sea sponge industry.

Tarpon Springs also has a strong Greek influence. Sponge divers from Dodecanese Island had experience diving for sponges in the Aegean Sea and migrated to Tarpon Springs looking for more work.

They settled here over a century ago, but you can still find a strong Greek influence in Tarpon Springs today. The cobblestone streets and Greek shops in the historic district are an echo of the past.

Be sure to stop for lunch at Hellas Restaurant and order a gyro for lunch, then pick up a slice of baklava cheesecake from the restaurant bakery.

The sea sponge industry is still thriving in Tarpon Springs as well.

Walk along the sponge docks to see the boats, and pick up some unique souvenirs made of sea sponges. You can also take a boat tour to watch a sea sponge diver in action.

Sunset at the beach

Head back to your hotel at Treasure Island and pick up some pizza at the nearby Britt’s Coal Fire Pizza for dinner.

After dinner, grab some gourmet milkshakes from Shake Shop that is also located just in front of the Marriott Treasure Island hotel.

Spend the evening relaxing on the beach at Treasure Island and enjoying a glorious sunset as the sun sinks into the Gulf.

Day 7: Fort De Soto, Dolphin Tour, Siesta Key

Visit fort de soto park.

In the morning, head out to Fort De Soto Park. This county park is made up of five keys connected by bridges and causeways.

Here you can find the remains of an old Spanish-America War era military bunker located on Mullet Key.

You can even see the remains of Battery Bigelow that collapsed into the gulf during a hurricane in the 1920s

A few other popular attractions at Fort De Soto include visiting the Quartermaster Museum, renting bikes and riding along the 7-mile paved bike path, renting kayaks and exploring the mangroves, fishing from the pier, taking a ferry to Egmont Key, or going tide pooling at North Beach

Go on a dolphin tour

Book an afternoon tour with Dolphin Racer at St. Pete’s Beach, it’s affordable and so fun for the whole family!

For the tour, you’ll hop aboard one of the largest speedboats in the US and enjoy a thrilling ride while the dolphins jump and play in the large wake.

The boat cruises around the bay before heading out into the Gulf and then making its way back to the harbor.

While in the bay, you’ll even get an up-close look at some of the largest oceanfront mansions in Tampa Bay.

We saw so many dolphins while on the tour, and you are guaranteed to see at least one dophin or your next tour is free.

Sunset at Siesta Key Beach

As you make your way back to Miami, stop at Siesta Key Beach in Sarasota to enjoy the sunset.

In 2015, Siesta Key Beach was voted #1 overall on Trip Advisor’s USA Traveler’s Choice for Best Beach.

In 2011 it was also voted Best Beach in America by Dr. Beach.

The long stretch of powdery white sand, warm turquoise water, colorful lifeguard stands, central location, dreamy sunsets, and modern amenities helped this beach to secure the top spot.

The beach is a tourist magnet, but the ample parking and wide sandy beach help accommodate the large crowds.

It’s the perfect spot to enjoy your last sunset in Florida before heading back to Miami.

After the beach, continue on to Miami and snag a hotel close to the airport so you can get a good night’s sleep before your flight home the next day.

And that wraps up our one-week Florida road trip itinerary. I hope this helps you plan your perfect Florida vacation!

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Miami to Key West Road Trip: Perfect One Week Itinerary

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you buy or book through one of these links, I may earn a small commission .

Headed on a Miami to Key West road trip for your next vacay?  If the idea of driving to an island blows your mind, then you are in for some excitement. It’s a known fact that making the drive from the U.S. mainland over the various bridges connecting the Florida Keys is a truly unforgettable and unique experience. 

Even writing about this trip puts me in such a good mood. It’s a combination of many things I love: tropical vibes, road trips, and even historical sights. The moment I learned it was possible to drive the 159 miles between Miami and Key West, I knew this road trip was in my future. Especially since both Miami and Key West are both such awesome places to explore!

I found that spending a little bit of time in both Miami and Key West gives you the best of two different worlds.  Miami is the faster paced, more energetic portion, while Key West slows things back down for a calm finish. And of course, the road trip is the scenic buffer in between!

If you are in desperate need of a getaway, a road trip from Miami to Key West is just what you need.  This is a vacation that will bring you both adventure and relaxation, with the occasional dose of key lime pie and rum punch.  With that, let’s get into how to plan an unforgettable Miami to Key West road trip with this dreamy one week itinerary.

Ultimate Miami to Key West Road Trip Itinerary

Up front, I want to say that this is not really a party itinerary for either Key West or Miami.  Don’t get me wrong – my husband and I are all for a little bar hopping, but we rarely make it out past midnight. In fact, I’ve more so come to love being a morning person, and having the quiet streets to myself before the rest of the world rises.

As this is a seven day Miami & Key West itinerary, it’s a good idea to pace yourself anyhow.  You can still find some great people watching, without actually partaking in Miami’s crazy (and expensive) club scene. 

Table of Contents:

Best Time of Year for a Miami to Key West Road Trip

Getting around miami beach & key west, where to stay in miami beach & key west, part i: 3 days in miami beach.

• Part II: Road Trip from Miam i to Key West

Part III: 4 Days in Key West

Miami and Key West tend to have sunshine and warmth all year round. However, summer weather can get scorchingly hot and humid, and early fall brings hurricanes. Therefore, December through May is the ideal timeframe for planning a Miami to Key West road trip.

It is very easy to get around both Miami Beach and Key West by walking, biking, or ordering an Uber. The only time you will need a car on this entire trip is for the round trip drive from Miami to Key West.

Stay in a classy Art Deco hotel on the water.  When you aren’t out strolling the streets of Miami, you could lounge at your hotel’s pool, or grab a couple of your hotel’s chairs along the beach. 

The Savoy Boutique Hotel is a great option, and we personally loved our stay here. We found great room prices for our late May trip when we booked it with our flight on Expedia. We were also excited to have our room upgraded upon arrival to an ocean view suite. It could be a coincidence, but we have always been upgraded whenever we’ve booked on Expedia without even asking!

Key West is the perfect place to grab an Airbnb or vacation rental on VRBO . If that’s not quite your style, there are plenty of hotel and bed and breakfast options. However, lodging in Key West can get rather expensive.

My husband and I stayed in the Old Town Garden Villas , and had our own condo, which was nice and spacious for the two of us. It was tucked back on a quiet side street, but also very well located, being just a block from Duval, a five minute walk from the Ernest Hemingway House, and an eight minute walk from the Southernmost Point.

It also had a kitchen, which is great for saving money and preparing your own meals, as well as a small dipping pool to cool off from the hot sun. Most of all, we loved the convenience of being able to easily walk or bike to everything.

Travel Savvy Tip

Want to know how we never check bags for vacations, including this one? Take a look at my beach trip packing list , which includes all the essentials that you’ll need in your carry-on.

Day 1: Arrival in Miami Beach

On the day you arrive into Miami, you’ll mostly be getting settled in. Therefore, I wouldn’t plan on squeezing in too much sightseeing. Just treat anything you do manage to see as a bonus.

-Dinner in Miami-

What you may have time for is some good food. Since my husband and I arrived into Miami around 3:14 p.m, and only had a twenty minute taxi to The Savoy Hotel, we made a dinner reservation at Joe’s Stone Crab , which is known to be a Miami Beach institution.

If you are visiting from October to May, you too will be able to check this place out. However, be ready to spend some dough. My husband and I were on a tight budget, and I don’t think our limited spending allowed us to fully enjoy this place. If you are on a budget like we were, your money will likely go further elsewhere.

-Evening People Watching on Ocean Drive-

If you have any steam left, find a perch on Ocean Drive for some people watching. One of my favorite moments during our trip was chilling at a Miami Beach sports bar on Ocean Drive, when the flashy club-goers were just getting primed for the evening.  We watched as luxury car after luxury car slowly rolled by, music bumping, and we could definitely feel the energy of the evening beginning to unfold.

Ocean Drive can be a nightmare to drive down at certain times of the day.  While Ubers are highly accessible in Miami, often times walking is a more time efficient option.  For distances that are too far to walk, still order an Uber or taxi, but just have them drop you off once you get within walking distance, as traffic truly is that slow.

Day 2: Miami Beach

-take a morning walk-.

Mornings in Miami are quiet and peaceful, in contrast to the rowdy night scene where the bars stay open until 5:00 a.m..  This is the perfect time to take a walk in Miami Beach, and you won’t be alone.  Many residents of South Beach are dedicated to maintaining their physiques, and you’ll see plenty of people out doing their workouts.

Full transparency – Miami is not all glamour. Like any other big city, Miami has its share of poverty, and you will sadly see some people sleeping in small parks along Ocean Drive.

Miami Beach is famous for its Art Deco style buildings along Ocean Drive.  My favorite thing we did in Miami Beach was simply walking along this famous area, and taking in the scenery and vibe.  Being that it was May during my visit, the sun was shining and the weather was perfect for being outside.

-Breakfast Followed By Beach Time-

Hands down, one of my favorite places we checked out in Miami was Under the Mango Tree . If you love green juice and smoothie bowls like me, then this will absolutely be the place for you. We liked it so much, we came here every morning during our stay in Miami Beach.

After this delightful start to your day, spend the afternoon relaxing either poolside at your hotel, or check out the expansive beach. If you are staying on Ocean Drive, chances are that your hotel will set you up with some beach chairs and an umbrella. The beach in Miami is large in both width and length, and is perfect for long walks or tossing a football.

-Head Out for Dinner-

If you are traveling as a couple and seeking something formal for a romantic date night, consider making reservations for Pied a Terre . This high-end French restaurant is located in the ambient Cadet boutique hotel, and is sure to please the most refined of palates.

If you’d like a more unique, cultural experience, then head to Miami Beach’s vibrant Little Havana neighborhood. It’s full of charm, great food, and hip bars that will keep you entertained into the wee hours of the night. If you’re going to pick one place, then head to Sanguich de Miami for Cuban sandwiches with batidos, or Cuban milkshakes.

Day 3: Miami Beach

It’s your last day in Miami Beach before heading down to Key West. Hopefully you wake up well-rested and hang-over free!

I recommend either taking it easy again today with another beach/pool day, or heading out for a little shopping. I personally recommend taking full advantage of the beach while you can, as Key West’s rocky and largely man-made beaches simply will not measure up.

-Do Some Shopping-

If you’d like to do a little shopping during your time in Miami, just a couple streets over from Ocean Drive is Collins Avenue. This street is lined with popular retail shops, such as Club Monaco and Sephora.

An even better place to check out is the Lincoln Road Mall, which was only about 1.5 miles from our hotel. This beautiful outdoor mall contains a wide selection of shops and restaurants, including our favorite: Doraku Sushi .

-Sushi For Dinner-

After an afternoon at the beach or perusing the shops at Lincoln Road Mall, you’ll surely work up an appetite. End up at Doraku (at Lincoln Road Mall) in time for dinner, and enjoy some mouth-wateringly good sushi rolls.

For your last evening, check out the vibe on Ocean Drive, and maybe pop into a souvenir shop or two. My husband and I found ourselves at a sports bar called Finnegan’s Way, where we watched the Cavs lose a playoff game to Toronto before drowning our sorrows with a quick stop at Gelato-Go on the way home. There may or may not have been a subsequent delivery order placed for Insomnia Cookies. I can neither confirm nor deny.

Part II: Miami to Key West Road Trip

Now for the adventurous part of the trip: driving south over 40 bridges through the Florida Keys on Highway 1 (aka the Overseas Highway).  The trip ends when there is no more highway left to drive.

The road trip between Miami and Key West is the only time during the trip that you’ll need a rental car. We found it easiest to pick up a rental car from the airport before leaving Miami. That way, we could simply drive straight back to the airport from Key West at the end of our trip, and head to security before our flight.

The road trip from Key West to Miami is a three and a half hour drive as a straight shot. However, this will also depend on traffic and how often you stop. I have listed some places to check out along the way to Key West that are totally worth your while.

Miami to Key West Road Trip Stops:

I have listed the below stops in the order that you’ll see them on the drive down to Key West, as well as the required drive time between each one. The journey down Highway 1 is one of the most relaxing and scenic drives you will ever do, so keep your camera ready and enjoy the ride.

• John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (Drive 1 hour and 8 minutes to Key Largo): Kayak through mangrove trails or take a glass bottom boat tour over coral reef habitats. We loved paddling in these incredibly gentle waters, and even got to see a couple dolphins. Single kayak rentals are $20 per hour, or $40 for four hours.
• Island Grill (Drive 27 minutes to Islamorada): Stop here for a drink with a view in order to instantly enter vacation mode. Also, an order of the tuna nachos is a must!
• Bahia Honda State Park (Drive 1 hour and 3 minutes to Bahia Honda Key): Stretch your legs in gorgeous scenery, including white sand beaches and the remnants of an old bridge. This is an awesome place to simply walk around, or do a little swimming and snorkeling. Entry is $8 per vehicle; be mindful that the eastern facing beaches do see sargassum seaweed in the spring/summer months.
• Hogfish Bar & Grill (Drive 40 minutes to Stock Island): This laid-back eatery is located next to a marina. Listen to live music while devouring their specialty: fried hogfish, which is caught locally. They also make really good cocktails, like my excellent skinny margarita.

From there, it’s just another fifteen minutes or so to the action in Key West.

Road Tunes:

You’ll of course want to have a fun playlist for a road trip as epic as this one. Here is the perfect tropical playlist , which you can feel free to use or pull from for inspo.

The Key West portion is when I felt like our trip began to turn into a vacation.  Miami was fast-paced, with lots of partying and emphasis on looking good, shopping, and fancy cars. 

That all began to fall away when we started our drive down through the Keys.  The shops and strip malls began to give way to bridges and irresistibly calm turquoise water.  The tropical vacation vibes were growing stronger with each mile.

Arriving into Key West, aka The Conch Republic, was a relief.  I felt myself stop obsessing about what I looked like, and welcomed the laid back atmostphere.  Nachos were consumed, and I downed the likes of rum punch and pina colada left and right.  Key West simply won’t allow you to do anything but have a good time!

Day 4: Arrival in Key West

-settle in and rent bikes-.

Your arrival day in Key West is all about adjusting to your new surroundings and getting a lay of the land. Before all else, check into your new lodging and get your bearings.

The next step is to rent bikes as your primary mode of transportation for the duration of your stay. While you have your rental car available, you won’t need it on this small island. Plus, traffic is congested and parking can be tricky (though not impossible). My husband and I rented bikes from A&M Scooters for about $97 total to use over four days.

-Find Some Dinner-

Once you’re settled, it’s time to find food. Make your way to DJ’s Clam Shack , which is right in the heart of Duval Street, or Key West’s main drag.

DJ’s Clam Shack is a tiny outdoor restaurant that has been featured on Diners Drive-In’s & Dives. Sometimes these places end up being overrated, but not this one.

First of all, the restaurant was still quite low key, and not overrun by tourists at all. Second, their food was mouthwateringly good. It is mandatory to try their super-stuffed lobster roll and conch fritters – you won’t be disappointed!

-Drinks on Duval-

Afterwards, why not stroll down Duval Street and see what there is to see? There are a ton of bars lining this street, so here are two suggestions to help you decide where to start:

• Rum Bar : This small bar serves awesome rum cocktails, including my St. John favorite: the painkiller . Any place that gives a nod to the Virgin Islands is alright in my book. On our latest trip, we came here every day to sit on the porch with our drinks and people watch.
• Sloppy Joe’s : This old Key West standby is known for its famous regular: Ernest Hemingway, as well as piña coladas and live music. It’s also very loud in there, so don’t go if you were hoping for hours of catching up with an old friend.

Key West feels very Caribbean, but is not technically in the Caribbean Sea.  There is the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Gulf of Mexico to the west.  South of Key West are the straights of Florida, which connect the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico.

Day 5: Key West

For your first full day in Key West, it’s time to get into the good stuff. We’re talking landmarks, history, and majorly ambient restaurants. Find yourself some breakfast and coffee, and let’s get to it.

-Visit the Southernmost Point-

Get to the “Southernmost Point of the continental United States” landmark early to enter the quick-moving line for your photo. This is simply one of those things that are a “must-do” on any trip to Key West. Even though waiting in line for a simple photo is annoying, I must say people were very courteous about taking their turn and snapping group photos for one another.

-Tour the Ernest Hemingway House-

To get in your slice of history for this trip, visit the ever-so-charming Ernest Hemingway House , where he lived with his second wife, Pauline, for almost ten years. You’ll get to see the studio Hemingway kept above the carriage house, where he’d spend his mornings writing.

The Ernest Hemingway House is also famous for being home to generations of six-toed cats. Keep a lookout for these little fellas and pay your respects to those who went before at the cat cemetery.

-Visit the Key West Lighthouse-

Continue your morning sightseeing by making your way over to the Key West Lighthouse – just one minute from the Hemingway House. This lighthouse has been in service since 1848, and had the highly unusual circumstance of a female lighthouse keeper. Today, you can tour the grounds, and even climb the 88 steps to the top.

-Dinner at Latitudes-

Making reservations for Latitudes on Sunset Key is an absolute MUST for any Key West trip. This open air restaurant by the water is loaded with ambience and has an amazing menu. Our dinner here was definitely one of the best experiences we had on our trip.

To get to Latitudes, simply take the quick shuttle from Slip #29, behind the Opal Key Resort & Marina. This short ride gives you the extra bonus of being on the water for a second.

-Grab a Couple Drinks-

Our first trip to Key West had a bit of a sports theme, with the Cavs being in the Eastern Conference Finals against Toronto. Therefore, we had to find a bar with a good game-watching atmosphere.

If that’s something you’re after during your trip, I highly recommend Sandbar Sports Grill or Jack Flats . They both have the perfect setup, with plenty of TV’s so that you don’t miss the big game while on vacation.

Day 6: Key West

-watch the sunrise-.

Sunrises and sunsets in Key West are legendary, and you need to experience both during your trip. For the optimal sunrise viewing, rise early enough to head to Higgs Beach Park for its pier with a perfect, unobstructed view of the horizon.

-Indulge in Some Donuts-

Glazed Donuts is the place to hit up for your donut fix in Key West. Just be sure to get there early, or they may sell out.

We ordered the Cuban coffee, blueberry cheesecake, and key lime donuts, and they were ridiculously good, with a nice chew. We actually liked the key lime donut better than many of the key lime pies we tried!

-Have Some Beach Time-

Although Key West is not widely touted for its beaches, they do exist there. Our favorite was at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park.

The beach there has fluffy white sand, and is large enough to fit plenty of visitors. It is also in a more natural environment, being removed from the action and traffic of Key West, and has lots of trees for shade.

There are chairs and umbrellas available for rent at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, as well as a concession stand for snacks and refreshments. Also, this park is an excellent location for watching the sunset. Entry is $6 per vehicle.

-Sunset Sail-

This day will lead up to a sunset sail with Danger Charters at 6:30 p.m. where you will see a sunset like no other.  This is one of the most fun things you could do in Key West . 

During our trip, the water was so still that we couldn’t even sail, and the boat had to use its motor.  In these relaxed conditions, the wine was flowing and we ate so many snacks. 

After this, we had a good time at Schooner Wharf .  I simply love this divey seaside spot for its harborside location, stiff drinks, and fried conch fritters. You could just picture the saltiest of sailors enjoying this type of place after being relieved of their duties for the day. 

-Dessert at Better Than Sex-

End your evening with the ultimate indulgent experience at Better Than Sex .  This dessert restaurant makes decadent, downright sinful desserts, such as Man Flowers (dense chocolate stout cake) and Blueberry Birthday Suit (dessert French Toast).

Day 7: Key West

Although the sun is starting to set on this Key West trip, we’re not quite finished yet. There are still some great places to see before your time in the tropics is done.

-Brunch at Blue Heaven-

You cannot go to Key West without stopping at Blue Heaven for brunch and key lime pie. This colorful place perfectly encompasses Key West with its vibrance, laid back vibes, chickens freely clucking about, and excellent food. I can confirm that both the pineapple pancakes and key lime pie with its tall meringue were winners!

Can’t make it for brunch? Blue Heaven is also great for dinner, and accepts limited reservations. They even have live music most nights of the week.

-Harry S. Truman Little White House-

It’s time for one more little peak into history before leaving Key West. Although visited by other presidents, this site was most heavily used by President Harry S. Truman as his winter White House throughout his presidency. Truman ultimately spent 172 days here, where he would contemplate the issues of the time following World War II.

Today the Little White House is open every single day of the year for touring. Admission ain’t cheap at $22.20 a person, but it’s worth it to see Key West beyond just the bars and festivities.

-Watch the Sunset at Mallory Square-

Don’t leave Key West without partaking in this nightly tradition that dates back to the late 1960’s. Every night, about two hours before sunset, Mallory Square hosts a “Sunset Celebration”.

Not only is this an amazing spot to watch the gorgeous orange glow of the sunset over the horizon, but there are also festivities to partake in before the main event. This includes the likes of street performers and local vendors, who add to the energy building up to sunset.

-Grab Dinner-

On your last night in Key West, head to Hank’s Hair of the Dog Saloon . This fun outdoor spot features live music, a full bar, and the Garbo’s Grill food truck in the back of the property.

Garbo’s Grill serves delicious tacos, poke bowls, and their signature lobster roll. If you visit during happy hour (4 pm to 7 pm or 10 pm to midnight) you can sample three of their tacos for just $11.

Departure Day

It’s time to finally free up the parking spot you’ve been hoarding, and make your journey back through the Florida Keys to Miami. Depending on how early you need to leave, you may have a little time to sit and eat breakfast before you depart.

If you feel in need of a cleanse after all you’ve consumed during this trip, the Green Pineapple Cafe is the perfect stop. Their green smoothies and salads will have you feeling good as new!

Have More Time?

If you have another day available to spend in Key West, then I highly recommend a visit to Dry Tortugas National Park . It is uniquely situated seventy miles west of Key West, in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico. The island is a cool place to spend the day at a gorgeous isolated beach and explore historic Fort Jefferson.

You can arrive either by ferry or seaplane. We made our visit via seaplane, and the views couldn’t have been more incredible.

So was that an epic Florida adventure or what? With seeing two such different places as Miami and Key West, this trip is bound to feel like more than a week.

The road trip from Miami to Key West is a unique opportunity to make a driving journey over islands and bridges, with the calmest waters of the Gulf and Atlantic that you’ll ever see. It’s definitely a trip that is worthy of any bucket list!

Will you be making the memorable drive between Miami and Key West soon?

Related Posts

Loving this post!! Your writing is so clever and funny too. We just got to key west after following your Miami tips. Thank you!!

Love to hear it! Hope you have the best time!

Love your post and pictures! Driving from Miami to the Keys in January. I have one question: Do you keep your rental car the whole time you are on the Keys? I think we will be walking most of the time. Thanks in advance 🙂

Thank you! I definitely see your point here. We kept our car for the whole four days we were there, but you’re right – we didn’t use it at all. I suppose you could see about dropping it off upon arrival and picking up a new rental car when you are ready to drive back. It does seem like most rental car agencies are on the outskirts of the city though, so you’d have to weigh the cost of Ubering vs. paying for your car on those days. Plus, the extra time those extra steps would take. Hope that helps!

We are heading out on our first drive to Key West. Land inMiami and want to stay one night on the way down. What hotel would be your suggestion? Just two adults on the first get away in a year!

So excited for you! While I have never personally stayed in any Florida Keys besides Key West, I suggest deciding based on how you’d like to split the drive. If you’d like to do the full Overseas Highway in one day, I suggest staying in Key Largo, which has a lot of hotel options, before making the rest of your way down. If you’d like to break up the drive though the Keys, Islamorada is another good stop several hotel options, and just under two hours from Key West. Hope that helps!

Thank you for sharing! I was wondering about how much did you end up paying for this whole 1 week itinerary – what would be a good estimate of the budget? 🙂

This Miami to Key West Road Trip guide is incredibly helpful. You’ve really thought through everything you need to know before planning a trip. Thank you for this helpful resource. Saving this guide for later!

Thank you for such a detailed itinerary! My fiancé and I are getting married next year and we are thinking about making this our honeymoon trip 😄 Your post will definitely be our guide.

Thank you so much! 🙂

Love all of this! We are thinking this for our honeymoon and this itinerary really helped! What was the total cost for this trip not including airfare since that depends on where you are flying from.

Thanks Jessica! It’s an awesome destination for a honeymoon. I will need to do a little math and get back to you. I’m on the road, and can’t get the numbers right away, but will circle back in a few days. 🙂

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One Week Florida Keys Road Trip Itinerary

First-time visitors to the Florida Keys should set aside at least a week to experience the best that these legendary islands—plus the gateway areas of Miami and the Everglades—have to offer.

Most travelers reach the Florida Keys by vehicle, which means you’ll likely begin your trip in the Miami area. For a taste of the city’s multicultural vibe, head to Little Havana , where you can sample authentic Cuban food and browse aromatic cigar shops. Then venture east to South Beach , where you can tour the colorful Art Deco District , view impressive art and artifact collections at the Jewish Museum of Florida—FIU or the World Erotic Art Museum , and relax at the popular Lummus Park Beach .

After lunch at one of South Beach’s savory cafés, head southwest to Coconut Grove and Coral Gables , both of which boast a variety of historic structures and shopping options. Savor a fine meal and perhaps stay the night at The Biltmore Hotel , a 1920s-era hotel in Coral Gables, where you can also play golf or enjoy a massage. If you’d rather experience Miami’s nightlife, stay in one of the boutique hotels or world-class resorts in South Beach.

Rise early and head to Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park , where you can stroll along the beach, have breakfast at the Lighthouse Cafe, and take a guided tour of the 1825 Cape Florida Lighthouse , which provides panoramic views of Biscayne Bay . Afterward venture south to Biscayne National Park , where you can explore Boca Chita Key, Elliott Key, and other islands by kayak.

If you’re an animal lover, stop by the Everglades Alligator Farm near Florida City, which features live alligator feedings and airboat rides in the Everglades. For a more intimate tour of this subtropical wilderness, take a canoe trip through Everglades National Park , Big Cypress National Preserve , or Collier-Seminole State Park , all marvelous places to observe birds, alligators, and other native creatures.

To experience the region’s heritage, head to the Miccosukee Indian Village on the Tamiami Trail or the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum on the Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation. After a day of sightseeing, unwind at the Miccosukee Resort & Gaming , where you’ll find endless dining, entertainment, and lodging options.

Venture south on U.S. 1 to the Florida Keys. In northern Key Largo , head to the tranquil Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park , which lures hikers, bikers, and wildlife lovers daily. Farther south you’ll encounter John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park , where popular activities include kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

Afterward head to Dolphins Plus , where you can learn how to be a marine mammal trainer. Wildlife lovers will also appreciate the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center , home to rehabilitating brown pelicans, turkey vultures, and great horned owls.

Following a day of outdoor diversions, relax at one of Key Largo’s many waterfront restaurants, most of which offer ideal spots to watch the sunset. Throughout Key Largo you’ll find a variety of eateries, bars, and hotels, including those at the Key Largo Resorts Marina , which also features the historical African Queen .

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Continue southwest to the islands of Islamorada . Here art lovers can explore paintings, sculptures, and other unique creations at The Rain Barrel on Plantation Key, while history buffs can learn about the ill-fated Overseas Railroad at Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park . Farther southwest it’s hard to miss the enormous sign for Theater of the Sea , which offers bottomless boat rides and entertaining marine mammal shows. Meanwhile on Upper Matecumbe Key, you’ll find the History of Diving Museum , which houses a curious collection of diving paraphernalia.

On Lower Matecumbe Key, Robbie’s of Islamorada features boat rentals, fishing charters, and an open-air market. The marina also provides boat tours of two remote islands: Indian Key Historic State Park , once the site of a lucrative cargo-salvaging business, and Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park , where you can tour a virgin tropical forest. While all the islands of Islamorada are worth visiting, Upper Matecumbe Key boasts most of the area’s shops, spas, bars, restaurants, and accommodations.

Just past Layton in the Middle Keys is Long Key State Park , a tranquil place for canoeists, anglers, hikers, and snorkelers. Farther south, you can embrace other family-friendly diversions, such as flying high above the islands and coral reefs via Island Hoppers Aerial Adventures , visiting dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center , exploring the wooded islands of Curry Hammock State Park , and relaxing on Sombrero Beach , popular with swimmers, picnickers, and volleyball enthusiasts.

If you have time, take a walking tour of The Turtle Hospital , a rescue facility on Vaca Key. Then stop by the Pigeon Key Gift Shop, housed in a red train car, and purchase admission to Pigeon Key , an early-20th-century base camp for bridge workers. Admission includes a ferry ride to the island, which you can also access via the Old Seven Mile Bridge .

You’ll find plenty of after-hours dining and lodging options in the Middle Keys. Though most lie on Vaca Key, Marathon’s lengthiest island, you may prefer more isolated places, such as Hawks Cay Resort on Duck Key.

After crossing the Seven Mile Bridge , you’ll encounter the less populated Lower Keys, where Bahia Honda State Park lures kayakers, snorkelers, anglers, and bikers daily. On Big Pine Key, you might be able to spot a tiny key deer in the National Key Deer Refuge or an alligator at the freshwater Blue Hole . While here, take a snorkeling or diving trip to Looe Key Reef , where you’ll spy large coral formations, spiny lobster, and the remains of a shipwreck.

Where you choose to spend your evening depends on your budget. If you can’t afford the high dining and lodging prices at the exclusive Little Palm Island Resort & Spa , consider some of the Lower Keys’ more affordable options, from cottages on Big Pine Key to an RV park on Geiger Key.

Head to Key West and survey its attractions aboard the Conch Tour Train . Then begin your self-guided tour on Duval Street in Old Town , where you can peruse art galleries, visit historical landmarks, and see colorful butterflies at The Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory . On nearby Whitehead Street, stroll among six-toed felines at the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum , view the city from atop the Key West Lighthouse , and see John James Audubon’s drawings at the Audubon House & Tropical Gardens .

Not far away, the impressive Mel Fisher Maritime Museum presents many of the treasures discovered in the famous Atocha shipwreck. Stroll to the nearby Custom House Museum , where you’ll see portraits of famous Key West residents, and take a guided tour of the Harry S. Truman Little White House . If there’s time, head to Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park , which offers guided tours of the 19th-century fort as well as the finest beach in town.

Be sure to experience the daily Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square , and enjoy the plethora of nearby shops, bars, and restaurants. While you’ll find a variety of accommodations here, from low-key campgrounds to oceanfront resorts, consider staying in Old Town, which ensures easy access to Key West’s most popular activities.

Joshua Lawrence Kinser

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Moon Florida Keys: With Miami & the Everglades

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Travel Hacks: How to Score Affordable Flights and Hotels for Your Next Trip

① the cheapest month to travel abroad.

G lobally, the cost of overseas travel is not cheap. According to a 2023 study by Bankrate, the average cost for one person to spend a week on vacation in the U.S. turned out to be $1,984. If two people take the same vacation, the cost rises to $3,969.

However, travel is also a worthwhile investment in ourselves. Studies suggest that travel can improve our overall health. Fortunately, there are ways to enjoy overseas travel without excessive spending.

Last year, luggage storage company Bounce released the results of a study investigating the cheapest times to visit the most popular travel destinations in the world. To find the exact dates, Bounce started with a list of 70 popular tourist destinations, using Kayak to find the average daily hotel costs by year and day of the week. They then used this data to calculate the average difference between the cheapest and most expensive months of the year for a one-night stay at a 3-star hotel.

After analyzing the data, Bounce stated, “January is the cheapest month to visit 15 cities,” noting a “clear seasonal influence” on travel costs. This includes popular destinations like London, Amsterdam, and Berlin.

February was also a month where you could travel similarly cheaply. It is the cheapest time to visit 12 cities, including New York, Paris, and Milan.

② When Is the Most Expensive Time to Travel?

The Maldives is a notorious travel destination for its high cost of staying. Travelers who visit the capital, Male, can save up to 85% by visiting from January to August. The peak season for travel to the Maldives is from early December to March. Avoiding this period can allow for a slightly cheaper visit.

Regarding the cheapest travel days, Bounce made a somewhat surprising discovery. Contrary to popular belief, the data showed that Saturday was the cheapest day for accommodation in 17 cities, including Las Vegas, Dublin, and Milan. They added that various factors, such as decreased demand for weekend business trips, could be the reason.

In 2022, the cheapest day to travel was Saturday. Sunday, Friday, and Monday were all tied for second place as the cheapest days to travel to 10 cities, including major destinations like Prague, Barcelona, Rome, Singapore, and Miami.

On the other hand, winter and fall travel showed the highest rates in December. They found a trend of the highest prices in many destinations, including Asian cities like Chiang Mai and Phuket in Thailand.

Also, due to Christmas, airfare and hotel prices in Europe are generally much higher in December. Cities like Athens, Lisbon, and Barcelona recorded their highest prices in September.

③ How to Book Airline Tickets at a Cheaper Price

The biggest part of travel costs is the price of airline tickets. It’s a good idea to check how to book airline tickets at a cheaper price in advance. One expert, Kristin McGrath, suggested signing up for email alerts from tools such as Expedia, Travelocity, and Google Flights to receive coupon codes in advance.

Also, if your travel plans are flexible, she suggested checking alternate flight dates to see if you can find a lower fare. You should book in Google Chrome’s incognito mode when purchasing airline tickets.

In incognito mode, cookies are blocked, so your search results are not saved.

If you have travel plans, booking well in advance can help you get airline tickets at a cheaper price.

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Trump's social media company loses billions in value as stock price swings wildly

By Aimee Picchi

Edited By Anne Marie Lee

Updated on: April 3, 2024 / 6:14 PM EDT / CBS News

Former President Donald Trump's fledgling media business is losing its sheen among investors a week after going public, with a sharp reversal in the company's stock price lopping $4 billion off its value.

Monday's plunge in Trump Media & Technology Group's shares, which debuted on the Nasdaq Composite Index on March 25 under the ticker "DJT" (after the former president's initials), comes as it disclosed mounting losses in a  regulatory filing . The company also noted that its accountant had issued a warning that its losses "raise substantial doubt about its ability to continue as a going concern."

Shares of Trump Media & Technology Group, whose primary asset is the Truth Social platform, tumbled 21% on Monday, closing at $48.66, or below its opening price last Monday of $49.90 per share. It also represents a 39% plunge from the stock's high of $79.38 on March 26.  

Since then, the stock has whipsawed, rallying 6% on Tuesday, but then dipping 5.4% on Wednesday, when it closed at $48.81, again below its opening price when Trump Media went public last week.

Still, the stock also remains higher than before a deal that took Trump's media company public last week. The shares had previously traded under the name Digital World Acquisition Corp., a shell company designed to take Truth Social public. Even after Monday's dip, the stock has surged 179% this year.

As of the close of trading on Tuesday, Trump, who owns 57% of the newly public company, has lost $2.5 billion — at least on paper — because of the stock slide. His stake is now worth $3.8 billion, down from $6.3 billion at the stock's peak last week.

Worth more than Harley-Davidson

To be sure, Trump Media continues to maintain a heady market capitalization for a business that's in the red and that booked just $4.1 million in revenue last year. Even after Monday's stock plunge, the business is worth $6.7 billion, making it more valuable than companies like Bausch & Lomb, Alcoa Corp. or Harley-Davidson, all of which have annual revenue in the billions. 

Trump Media's soaring valuation has prompted comparisons with so-called "meme" stocks like GameStop, which typically attract individual investors based on social media buzz, rather than the tried-and-true yardsticks relied on by institutional investors, such as profitability and revenue growth. 

Yet Truth Social has positioned itself as an alternative to more established tech giants such as Meta's Facebook, which also endured losses in its early years. 

"GameStop was the meme stock of a lifetime, but Trump Media has put it to shame," Michael Pachter, an analyst at Wedbush Securities, told the Associated Press last week. 

Despite the attention around Trump Media's debut on the public market, it's not giving a much of a boost to Truth Social, according to Similarweb. The web analytics firm found that traffic from daily active users of the platform fell 23% last week. 

"Even during the peak of excitement over the IPO (plus the release of a Trump-branded Bible), usage was less than 1% higher than the previous week," Similarweb said in a new report.

Trump Media CEO Devin Nunes: No debt

In a statement  on Tuesday, Trump Media & Technology Group CEO Devin Nunes said Truth Social "has no debt and over $200 million in the bank, opening numerous possibilities for expanding and enhancing our platform."

But details about Trump Media's finances show that the company's revenue is far lower than other social media platforms. On Monday, the company said it booked $4.1 million in revenue last year, compared with $1.5 million in the year-earlier period. 

That means Trump Media had about $750,000 in revenue in the fourth quarter, as the company had previously disclosed sales of $3.38 million for the first nine months of 2023. By comparison, Reddit, another money-losing tech company that recently went public, booked $804 million in revenue last year.

Trump Media & Technology Group also posted a loss of $58 million in 2023, compared with a profit of $50 million in the prior year. 

Additionally, it noted that its accountant flagged that the company's losses raise doubts about its ability to continue operating. Such a warning, however, reflects the company's current situation; the company could grow its user base, revenue and reverse its losses, putting it on a more stable path. 

Trump's stake locked up

Trump stands to make billions from his majority stake in Truth Social's parent company, a windfall that comes at an opportune time for the former president given mounting financial pressures . 

Even so, Trump is unable to access the stock, at least for now. That's because Trump and other company executives are subject to a so-called "lock-up" provision that bars them from selling the stock for at least six months. Such provisions are common in IPOs as a way to keep insiders from dumping shares immediately after a company goes public.

"Trump cannot sell his stock in the company for six months, making it difficult to translate Truth Social's value into liquid cash that can be spent on the campaign," Europa Group analysts said in a report. "That outlook could change over the coming months, particularly if Trump obtains the waiver or can find a lender willing to accept shares in Trump Media as collateral."

Many of the investors in DJT appear to be small investors who want to show their support for the former president by buying shares in the company. On Truth Social, some of these shareholders posted rebuttals about the stock decline, blaming short sellers, or people who make bets that a stock will decline. 

Others predicted that Trump Media's shares will soon rebound, while others blamed the stock decline on the former president's detractors. "They don't like President @realDonaldTrump and his policies, especially his creation, Truth Social, so they are trying to destroy his company, DJT," one supporter on a DJT group on Truth Social wrote. 

• Donald Trump
• Truth Social

Aimee Picchi is the associate managing editor for CBS MoneyWatch, where she covers business and personal finance. She previously worked at Bloomberg News and has written for national news outlets including USA Today and Consumer Reports.

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