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Things to Do in Miami

Things to Do in Miami

Miami Florida, USA Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Embrace Miami's natural beauty with thrilling activities on land and water.

Hiking and Trekking Routes

Everglades National Park

Anhinga Trail (easy, paved boardwalk for alligator/bird viewing). Pineland Trails (easy to moderate sections).

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

Easy nature trails, including a paved bike path, suitable for all ages.

Oleta River State Park

Offers mountain biking trails with various skill levels and kayaking in mangrove forests.

Water Sports and Activities

  • Swimming at all Miami beaches.
  • Snorkeling & Diving in Biscayne National Park.
  • Paddleboarding & Kayaking in Biscayne Bay.
  • Water Scootering & Parasailing available at beach destinations.
  • Boating & Sailing tours on Biscayne Bay.
  • Fishing charters and pier fishing at South Pointe Park.

Adventure Sports

  • Airboat Tours: High-speed rides and wildlife viewing in the Everglades.
  • Skydiving: Available from nearby airfields, like Homestead.
  • Kiteboarding: Lessons available in various beach areas.
  • Windsurfing: Popular areas include Biscayne.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Everglades National Park: Airboat tours, ranger-led programs for alligators, birds.
  • Biscayne National Park: Boating tours for dolphins, manatees, marine birds.
  • Zoo Miami: Diverse animal species in cageless exhibits.
  • Everglades Safari Park: Combines airboat rides with wildlife shows.

Cycling Routes

  • Miami Beach Boardwalk for scenic oceanfront rides.
  • Venetian Causeway: A scenic route connecting Miami to Miami Beach.
  • Biscayne trails: Crandon Park and Bill Baggs State Park.
  • Oleta River State Park: Mountain biking trails from beginner to advanced.

Wildlife Safety Note

When exploring natural areas like the Everglades, maintain a safe distance from wildlife. Never feed or approach wild animals. Follow park guidelines and ranger instructions.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with Miami's cultural fabric through workshops, performances, and community activities.

Workshops and Classes

  • Art Classes: Galleries in Wynwood offer workshops, including graffiti.
  • Dance Classes: Salsa and Bachata popular, especially in Little Havana.
  • Cigar Rolling: Demonstrations in Little Havana, for insight into Cuban tradition.
  • Language Learning: Spanish classes available due to large Hispanic population.

Cultural Performances

Live Latin Music

Enjoy nightly performances of Latin jazz, salsa, and Cuban music at venues like Ball & Chain and Hoy Como Ayer in Little Havana.

Flamenco Shows

Occasional performances happen at Spanish restaurants, offering a taste of Spain's dance.

Theater and Arts

Manuel Artime Theater hosts Latin American and Cuban cultural performances.

Community-Based Tourism

In Little Havana, support local businesses, artists, and musicians directly. Food tours often partner with local establishments.

Cultural Festivals

Calle Ocho Music Festival (March), Art Basel Miami Beach (December), Miami Film Festival, Miami Jewish Film Festival, Gay8 Festival (February).

Historic Overtown Tours

Explore the rich history of Miami's historically African-American community through guided tours, discovering its societal significance.

Relaxation & Wellness

Miami offers many options to unwind and rejuvenate, from luxurious spas to peaceful natural settings.

Spa and Wellness Center Recommendations

  • The Standard Spa, Miami Beach: Holistic approach, hammam, bayfront setting.
  • Acqualina Resort & Residences: Forbes Five-Star ESPA spa for indulgent treatments.
  • The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach: Tranquil spa with a selection of treatments.
  • Explore various day spas for a refreshing experience.

Hot Springs & Natural Therapy Options

No Natural Hot Springs

Miami does not feature natural hot springs within its immediate vicinity.

Thermal Treatments

Thermal treatments and hydrotherapy circuits are available at high-end spas and wellness centers.

Alternative Therapies

A diverse range of alternative therapies, like acupuncture and various forms of massage, are available throughout the city.

Yoga, Meditation & Beach/Pool Clubs

Yoga and Meditation

Many studios offer daily yoga classes. Some hotels provide beachfront yoga sessions. Retreats are more common further north in Florida or in the Florida Keys.

Hotel Beach Clubs

Many hotels in Sobe offer exclusive beach clubs with lounge chairs, umbrellas, and food and drink service.

Day Passes for Amenities

You can often purchase day passes for hotel pools or beach clubs, accessing their amenities for a day of relaxation.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Miami's nightlife is legendary, from live music and theater to world-class nightclubs.

Live Music Venues

  • Ball & Chain (Little Havana): Iconic venue for live Latin jazz, salsa.
  • Hoy Como Ayer (Little Havana): Popular spot for live Cuban music.
  • Lagniappe (Midtown): Laid-back jazz club with outdoor seating.
  • Bardot (Wynwood): Features live music and DJ sets.

Theater and Performance Spaces

Adrienne Arsht Center

Hosts major concerts, musicals, and classical shows in Downtown Miami.

Olympia Theater

A historic theater in The central business district Miami, hosting concerts, comedy, and theater.

Regional Theaters

GableStage at the Biltmore and Area Stage Company offer professional productions in Coral Gables.

Nightclubs & Dancing

Sobe is world-renowned for its nightclubs (LIV, Story). Electronic dance music is prominent. Brickell offers upscale lounges. Wynwood has trendy bars. Little Havana for salsa dancing.

Bar Districts & Pub Crawls

Ocean Drive (South Beach) for outdoor cafes. Washington Avenue for a more local scene. Brickell for upscale bars. Wynwood for craft breweries. Calle Ocho for Cuban-themed bars.

Late-Night Entertainment

Casinos (Hard Rock Hollywood, Hialeah Park). Comedy Clubs (Improv, Miami Comedy Club). Bowling alleys, arcades, and late-night diners also available.

Nightlife Safety

Remain alert, drink responsibly, and travel in groups or use ride-sharing services. Be cautious of unsolicited offers. Safeguard your belongings, especially in crowded venues.

Shopping & Markets

Miami provides a diverse shopping experience, from traditional markets to luxury boutiques.

Traditional Markets and Bazaars

  • Bayside Marketplace (Downtown Miami): Open-air shopping with tourist-oriented shops.
  • Coconut Grove Farmers Market (Sundays): Fresh produce, organic items, prepared foods.
  • Bayside also offers boat tours and various dining options.
  • Find local artisanal goods at these markets.

Artisan Workshops and Crafts

Little Havana Crafts

Find shops selling hand-rolled cigars, guayaberas (Cuban shirts), and local art.

Wynwood Galleries

Galleries and boutiques feature local and international artists, offering unique pieces.

Design District Showrooms

High-end design showrooms and public art installations for unique finds.

Souvenir Recommendations

  • Little Havana: Cuban cigars, coffee, guayaberas.
  • South Beach: Art Deco-themed items, beachwear.
  • Wynwood: Local art prints, unique apparel.
  • General: Gourmet food items like lime products, hot sauces.

Luxury & Boutique Shopping

  • Bal Harbour Shops: Ultra-luxury brands like Chanel, Gucci, Prada.
  • Design District: High-fashion boutiques (Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Dior).
  • Brickell City Centre: Upscale indoor/outdoor mall with large brands.
  • Lincoln Road Mall (Sobe): Pedestrian mall with high-street brands.

Ethical Shopping Guidelines

  • Support local artisans and businesses, especially in cultural districts.
  • Ensure tourism revenue benefits the community directly.
  • Look for fair trade certifications where available.
  • Buy authentic local products over mass-produced items.

Shipping and Customs Information

Shipping Purchases
  • Many stores offer international shipping.
  • Be aware of your home country's import duties.
  • Understand customs regulations for imported goods.
U.S. Customs Restrictions
  • Restrictions apply to particular goods, like Cuban cigars.
  • Cuban cigars not made for export prior to 1959 are generally prohibited.
  • Check current regulations before attempting to import.

Shopping Tip

For unique finds and local crafts, explore the smaller boutiques and places that show art in neighborhoods like Wynwood and Little Havana. These often hold more distinctive items than major chain stores.

Activity Planning Summary

Adventure & Excitement

  • Morning: Water sports in Biscayne Cove or an Everglades airboat tour.
  • Afternoon: Mountain biking at Oleta River State Park or hiking in Bill Baggs.
  • Evening: Experience live Latin music in Little Havana or a South Beach nightclub.
  • Cultural shows at Adrienne Arsht Center.

Culture & Relaxation

  • Morning: Art workshop in Wynwood or a cooking class.
  • Afternoon: Spa treatment or relaxing at a beach club.
  • Evening: Upscale dining in Brickell and boutique shopping.
  • Enjoy a sunset cocktail at a rooftop bar.