As the world slowly starts to open up in areas and the possibility of future travel looks more encouraging, we can start to dream more about bigger adventures and international travel. Of course, this can be subject to change at any point, that is the one thing we have learnt during this pandemic, but overall things do feel to be taking a positive turn as more people are being vaccinated daily. So I thought I would start sharing some more travel guides to get that wanderlust going and today is all about Miami.
Miami is one of the top holiday spots in the United States. Boasting incredibly warm weather, stunning beaches, cultural attractions, hip neighbourhoods and so much more, it’s really no surprise why the Magic City has become the premier travel destination in South Florida.
Whether you’re visiting Miami to soak up some sunshine by the beach, do some serious retail therapy, sample incredible local food, immerse yourself in the local culture or try a little bit of everything, there are numerous places to see and things to do in this buzzing coastal city.
To help you plan the perfect trip, we’ve done the legwork and compiled this essential list of top things to do in Miami. (Pro tip: If you have excess bags or items that you don’t want to carry around while exploring the city, look for a
luggage locker where you can temporarily store your things.)
1. Visit Miami Beach
Miami Beach is perhaps the most popular attraction in all of the city and is one of the major reasons why travellers from all parts of the country and the world flock to Miami. Situated on an island that is connected to the mainland by bridges, Miami Beach has everything one needs – including entertainment establishments, an eclectic mix of neighbourhoods, and miles and miles of sandy beaches.
The crown jewel of the area is the neighbourhood of South Beach, also known as SoBe, Miami’s hottest spot that is buzzing no matter what time of the day. Apart from the world-class shoreline and crystal clear waters, SoBe also offers plenty of opportunities for water sports and outdoor activities. Additionally, the area is filled with upscale restaurants, luxury hotels, vibrant nightclubs, and prime shopping destinations.
Another Miami Beach spot that is worth exploring is the Miami Art Deco Historic District, which got its name from the over 800 Art Deco-style buildings and architecture housed within the area. To get a better understanding of the district’s history and significance, join one of the many walking
tours of the Art Deco District.
2.
Check out the best museums the city has to offerWhile Miami is best known for its white-sand beaches, culture vultures need not fret; Miami is considered one of the most art-friendly cities in the United States. However, this doesn’t mean that Miami museums are limited to just art galleries.
In fact, the South Florida city is packed with museums that cater to all tastes and interests. Whether you’re a history buff, a science enthusiast, or a lover of art, you’ll find some noteworthy institutions to see. Below are our top picks for must-see museums in Miami:
HistoryMiami Museum: Housed in a Mediterranean-style building in downtown Miami, the HistoryMiami Museum gives a detailed look and rundown of how the city evolved from a mosquito-ridden swampland into one of the most vibrant and successful cities in the United States.
Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM): The ultimate cultural destination, PAMM is a 200,000-square-foot museum that is filled with stunning modern art and architectural creations, including replica boats and kinetic sculptures.
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens: Reminiscent of grand European villas, this former private residence turned museum boasts a collection of incredible objects and pieces spanning different periods, such as Rococo furniture, Renaissance tapestries, 20th-century paintings, and Roman sculptures.
The Bass Museum of Art: Located in the heart of Miami Beach, this outdoor art museum boasts some of the finest contemporary works and installations from world-renowned artists such as Jim Drain and Sylvie Fleury.
Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science: Situated in downtown Miami, this family-friendly museum features thought-provoking exhibitions regarding different branches and aspects of science. The massive science facility is also home to an aquarium and a cutting-edge planetarium.
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| Vizcaya Museum and gardens |
3. Get a taste of Cuba in Little Havana
Miami has a massive Cuban population and is heavily influenced by Cuban culture, which is why it really comes as no surprise that they have their own enclave in the city in the form of Little Havana. Nestled in the heart of Miami, Little Havana will transport you to Cuba and give you a taste of the genuine Cuban lifestyle.
One of the highlights is Calle Ocho, a major thoroughfare and is the centre of activity in the neighbourhood. Located at Calle Ocho is the district’s version of the walk of fame, which honours some of the greatest Latin figures and celebrities, such as Celia Cruz and Gloria Estefan.
While the district does not have an abundance of tourist attractions, it is definitely worth visiting if you’re looking for a change of scenery. In addition, Little Havana is known for its wealth of restaurants and speciality food stalls, most of which focus on authentic Cuban cuisine. If you happen to visit Miami in March, make sure to check out the Calle Ocho Festival, a street festival that celebrates Cuban and Latin American culture.
4.
Catch a baseball game at the LoanDepot Park.
Sports is a major deal in Miami and baseball is arguably the biggest and most celebrated sport in the city. Whether or not you’re a baseball fan, you should definitely experience the excitement of watching baseball live at the historic LoanDepot Park. Formerly known as the Marlins Park, the stadium is the official home of the
Miami Marlins, the MLB franchise of the city.
One of the most interesting features of the LoanDepot Park is the array of artwork scattered all over the area, such as images taken by the likes of Roy Lichtenstein and Joan Miro. The baseball park also has over 10 dining areas as well as an on-site sports bar – the Clevelander.
5.
Explore and shop at the Bayside Marketplace.
Located on the banks of Biscayne Bay in downtown Miami, the Bayside Marketplace is a must-visit when in the city. The two-story outdoor shopping centre is Miami’s ultimate shopping destination and a commercial centre, the mall has over 150 shops, including both international brands and independently-owned boutiques.
Additionally, the shopping centre has a range of restaurants, cafés, bars, and other commercial establishments. Both locals and tourists frequent the Bayside Marketplace in order to shop, eat, drink or simply relax and people-watch.
If you have nay tips or know if any hidden gems in Miami please feel free to share in the comments below
