Miami Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Miami with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, best places to stay, must-try food, safety tips, transportation options, and more.


Introduction to Miami

Miami is a vibrant city located in Miami-Dade County, Greater Miami, Florida, in the United States of America, North America. It is a favorite destination for travelers who want to experience a unique blend of beach, culture, food, shopping, and nightlife. Miami boasts a tropical climate, white sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters.

List of Places to Visit in Miami

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) - A modern and contemporary art museum located in Downtown Miami that showcases works from the 20th and 21st centuries.

  • Vizcaya Museum and Gardens - A historic museum and gardens constructed in the early 1900s, it features art, furniture, and architectural styles of the European Renaissance.

  • Little Havana - Experience the culture and history of the Cuban community in Miami, including the famous Calle Ocho street.

  • The Wolfsonian-FIU - A museum located on South Beach that features modern design and decorative arts.

Natural Attractions of Miami: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Everglades National Park - Explore the unique ecosystem of the Florida Everglades, including wildlife, airboat rides, and hiking trails.

  • South Beach - A popular destination for beachgoers, featuring white sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and plenty of restaurants and bars.

  • Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden - Explore the lush landscapes of this botanical garden featuring rare plants and conservation efforts.

  • Zoo Miami - Experience the wildlife of the world, including camels, crocodiles, and koalas in this park located in Southwest Miami.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Miami

  • The Underline - A ten-mile trail located underneath the Miami Metrorail, designed for bicycling and walking.

  • The Commodore Trail - A five-mile scenic ride that passes through Coconut Grove, Biscayne Bay, and the University of Miami.

  • The Shark Valley Trail - A fifteen-mile round trip along a paved path that provides stunning views of the Everglades.

Best Things to Do in Miami: Activities and Tours

  • Go on an Art Deco Walking Tour - Explore the colorful architecture and history of Miami’s Art Deco District in South Beach.

  • Experience the Nightlife - Miami is known for its lively clubs and bars, and it’s the perfect place to dance the night away.

  • Take a Food Tour - Miami has a diverse culinary scene, from Cuban sandwiches to fresh seafood to South American dishes.

  • Learn How to Salsa - Little Havana has a vibrant salsa scene and offers dance lessons and live music.

Week-Long Itinerary for Miami

Day Morning Afternoon Evening
Day 1 Visit the Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) Explore The Wynwood Walls street art Go out on South Beach
Day 2 Go on an Art Deco Walking Tour Relax on Beach Watch a Sunset on South Beach
Day 3 Take a day trip to the Everglades National Park Go Shopping in Coral Gables Enjoy seafood on Ocean Drive
Day 4 Head to Little Havana, grab a mojito, and explore Calle Ocho Visit the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens Dinner in Brickell
Day 5 Visit Zoo Miami Explore Fairchild Tropical Botanic Gardens Experience the nightlife in Brickell
Day 6 Take a food tour and experience Miami’s culinary scene Relax on the Beach Dance the night away at a local club
Day 7 Explore Miami’s stunning architecture and art scene Discover Miami’s Biscayne Bay and enjoy a boat ride Dine on delicious Cuban cuisine in Little Havana

Food and Drink Scene of Miami

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cuban Sandwich - A sandwich with roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread.

  • Stone Crab - A local delicacy consisting of large claws that are cooked and cracked to reveal the meat inside.

  • Key Lime Pie - A dessert made with the tart juice of key limes and a graham cracker crust.

  • Churrasco Steak - A Latin American dish consisting of grilled beef served with chimichurri sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Cafecito - A strong espresso shot with a touch of sugar, traditionally served in a small cup.

  • Mojito - A cocktail made with rum, mint, sugar, lime juice, and soda water.

  • Cuban Coffee - A sweet coffee made with finely ground espresso and sugar.

Where to Stay in Miami: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Betsy Hotel - A luxury boutique hotel in South Beach with ocean views and top-rated restaurants.

  • The Standard Spa Miami Beach - A chic retreat on Belle Isle with spa services and relaxation amenities.

  • Freehand Miami Hostel - A trendy hostel in Miami Beach with shared rooms, private suites, and a swimming pool.

  • The Miami Beach EDITION - A high-end hotel on the beach featuring luxury accommodations and amenities.

What to Buy in Miami: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cuban Cigars - A favorite among cigar enthusiasts, Cuban cigars are famous for their rich flavor and quality.

  • Art Deco Souvenirs - Take home a piece of the colorful Art Deco architecture with vintage signs or postcards.

  • Miami Beachwear - Get influenced by the city’s tropical climate and stylish fashion with swimwear, hats, and sunglasses.

Local Culture and Customs of Miami

Miami is a diverse and multicultural city, which is reflected in its food, music, and art scene. The Hispanic culture plays a significant role in Miami’s identity, especially in neighborhoods like Little Havana and Hialeah. Miami residents are warm and friendly, and it’s common to greet strangers with a smile and a friendly “hello.”

Best Time to Visit Miami

The best time to visit Miami is between March and May or October and November. The weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds. However, these months are considered high season, so it’s best to book accommodations and tours in advance.

Do’s and Don’ts of Miami

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine.

  • Do wear sunscreen and hats to protect yourself from the sun.

  • Do take a dip in the ocean!

  • Do use mosquito repellent if you’re planning to go to outdoor activities in the evening.

  • Do learn some Spanish phrases to communicate with locals.

Don’t:

  • Don’t walk alone in some areas of the city at night.

  • Don’t leave your valuables unattended on the beach.

  • Don’t forget to tip waitstaff, bartenders, and taxi drivers.

Safety and Health

Safety in Miami

Miami is a safe city for travelers, but it’s essential to take basic safety precautions. These include avoiding deserted areas, keeping your valuables out of sight, and using a taxi or a ride-sharing app at night.

Health in Miami

The most common health risks in Miami are sunburn and mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever and Zika virus. Wear sunscreen, avoid exposure to the sun and use mosquito repellent.

Getting to Miami: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Miami

Miami International Airport is the main airport in the city, located just eight miles northwest of downtown Miami. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is also nearby, located 27 miles north of Miami.

Bus Stations Near Miami

Greyhound operates several bus routes that go from Miami to other cities in the United States and Canada. The Miami Bus Terminal is located at 3801 Northwest 21st Street.

Other Options

Another option to get to Miami is by train. Amtrak offers daily services to Miami from several major cities such as New York and Atlanta.

How to Get Around in Miami

The best way to get around Miami is by car. It’s easier to explore the city, especially if you’re heading to beaches or attractions outside of the city center. Public transportation is also an option, including buses and trains that connect to other parts of Miami. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also readily available.

Where to Go Next from Miami: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Miami is a gateway to other amazing destinations in Florida. Some of the best nearby destinations to visit are:

  • Key West - A tropical paradise at the southernmost point of the United States featuring crystal clear waters, colorful coral reefs, and a laid-back atmosphere.

  • Orlando - Home to world-famous theme parks like Disney World and Universal Studios.

  • Palm Beach - An upscale beach town located an hour north of Miami with high-end shopping, gourmet restaurants, and luxury accommodations.

Conclusion

Miami is a diverse and unique destination that offers something for everyone. From world-class beaches, cultural attractions, top-rated restaurants, and vibrant nightlife, it’s a vacation that you won’t soon forget. With this comprehensive guide to Miami, you’re all prepared to plan a perfect vacation to Miami.

Little Havana Little Havana Metromover Metromover


    Coconut Grove
    Design District
    Downtown
    MiMo Boulevard
    Midtown