Downtown Travel Guide

Plan your Miami trip with this comprehensive Downtown travel guide. Find out where to stay, what to do, and how to get around Downtown Miami.


Introduction to Downtown

Downtown Miami is the bustling central hub of Miami-Dade County. It’s a diverse and vibrant urban area with a mix of towering skyscrapers, historic landmarks, and scenic waterfront views. Downtown Miami is considered the financial, cultural, and transportation center of South Florida. With its tropical climate and exciting attractions, there’s plenty to discover in Downtown Miami.

List of Places to Visit in Downtown

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)

One of the most prominent cultural institutions in Downtown Miami is the Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM). It houses contemporary and modern art exhibits from around the world, alongside a stunning collection of indigenous art from the Americas.

HistoryMiami Museum

Visitors to Downtown Miami can discover the city’s rich history at the HistoryMiami Museum. The museum offers exhibits on Miami’s diverse communities, from the Miccosukee tribe to Cuban immigrants, and highlights the city’s architectural heritage.

Natural Attractions of Downtown: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Bayfront Park

Bayfront Park is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll along the waterfront. This 32-acre park boasts stunning views of Biscayne Bay, and visitors can enjoy free yoga classes, concerts, and festivals throughout the year.

Miami Riverwalk

The Miami Riverwalk is a scenic pathway that runs alongside the Miami River. It’s the perfect spot for a morning jog or an evening stroll, with picturesque views of the city skyline and the river.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Downtown

Venetian Causeway

The Venetian Causeway is a popular cycling route that offers stunning views of Biscayne Bay and Miami Beach. It connects Downtown Miami with Miami Beach and is a great way to explore both areas.

Underline Park

The Underline is an ambitious project that will transform the space underneath Miami’s Metrorail into a 10-mile park and biking trail. The park is expected to open in 2021 and will offer a lush green escape in the heart of Downtown Miami.

Best Things to Do in Downtown: Activities and Tours

Biscayne Bay Boat Tour

For a unique perspective on the city, visitors can take a Biscayne Bay Boat Tour. The 90-minute tour takes participants through the waters of Biscayne Bay, offering unparalleled views of Downtown Miami and its landmarks.

Little Havana Food Tour

Miami is famous for its Cuban cuisine, and the Little Havana Food Tour is the perfect way to experience it firsthand. The tour takes visitors through the vibrant streets of Little Havana, stopping at family-owned restaurants and cafes to sample traditional dishes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Downtown

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Bayfront Park and Pérez Art Museum Miami
Day 2 Take a Biscayne Bay Boat Tour and visit HistoryMiami Museum
Day 3 Cycle the Venetian Causeway and enjoy Miami Beach
Day 4 Visit the Miami Riverwalk and explore Brickell City Centre
Day 5 Discover the street art of Wynwood and enjoy the nightlife
Day 6 Relax on South Beach and try a Little Havana Food Tour
Day 7 Visit Vizcaya Museum and Gardens and explore Downtown Miami’s architecture

Food and Drink Scene of Downtown

Must-Try Dishes

Cuban sandwich

Miami’s famous Cuban sandwich is a must-try. It’s made with ham, roast pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all served on crispy Cuban bread.

Stone crab claws

Stone crab claws are a local delicacy, harvested from the waters around Miami. They’re sweet and succulent and best served with a side of mustard dipping sauce.

Local Beverages

Miami Vice

The Miami Vice is a popular cocktail that combines the sweetness of piña colada with the tang of strawberry daiquiri.

Café Cubano

Café Cubano is a strong, sweet shot of espresso, a staple drink in Miami’s Cuban cafes.

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

InterContinental Miami

The InterContinental Miami is the epitome of luxury accommodation in Downtown Miami. It offers spectacular bay views, upscale amenities, and is in the heart of Downtown Miami’s financial district.

Miami Hostel

Located in the heart of Little Havana, Miami Hostel is a budget-friendly option for travelers looking to experience the authentic Miami experience. It offers private and shared rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a comfortable lounge area.

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

Panther Coffee

Panther Coffee is a Miami-based coffee roaster that offers an array of artisanal coffee blends, perfect for bringing home or as a gift for a coffee lover.

Wynwood Walls Book

Wynwood Walls is a vibrant street art destination, and their book highlights the work of some of Miami’s most talented artists.

Local Culture and Customs of Downtown

Miami is a diverse, multicultural city, and its customs and traditions reflect that diversity. Miami’s Latin-American heritage is evident in its music, food, and vibrant street culture.

Best Time to Visit Downtown

The best time to visit Downtown Miami is between March and May when the temperatures are pleasant and the humidity is low. Avoid the summer months, as they are hot and humid, and hurricane season runs from June through November.

Do’s and Don’ts of Downtown

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, especially the Cuban sandwich and stone crab claws
  • Take a Biscayne Bay Boat Tour for breathtaking views of the city and its landmarks.
  • Explore the vibrant street art of Wynwood.

Don’t:

  • Forget to wear sunscreen and stay hydrated when spending time outdoors.
  • Leave valuables unattended in public places
  • Get involved in any illegal activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Downtown

Downtown Miami is generally safe for tourists, but as in any big city, it’s important to take precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep your belongings close.

Health in Downtown

Miami-Dade County has an excellent healthcare system. Downtown Miami has several hospitals and clinics that offer quality healthcare services for locals and tourists alike.

Getting to Downtown: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Downtown

Miami International Airport (MIA) is located just 8 miles west of Downtown Miami. It is a major hub for international flights and offers connections to destinations around the world.

Bus Stations Near Downtown

The Miami Greyhound Station is located at 4111 NW 27th Street, approximately 6 miles northwest of Downtown Miami. It offers bus service to several destinations within Florida as well as other states.

Other Options

Downtown Miami is easily accessible by car, taxi, and ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft. Miami’s Metrorail and Metrobus systems offer convenient options for getting around the city.

How to Get Around in Downtown

Downtown Miami is a walkable city, but visitors can also rent bikes, use ride-hailing services, or take public transportation to explore the city. Miami’s Metromover is a free, elevated train system that runs through Downtown Miami and connects popular attractions and neighborhoods.

Where to Go Next from Downtown: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

South Beach

Just a short drive across the causeway from Downtown Miami is South Beach. It’s one of the most famous beach destinations in the world, with stunning white sand beaches, art deco architecture, and glamorous nightlife.

Everglades National Park

The Everglades National Park is just an hour’s drive from Downtown Miami. It’s a unique ecosystem filled with mangroves, alligators, and rare wildlife, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.

Conclusion

Downtown Miami is a dynamic and diverse urban area that offers something for everyone. From its cultural institutions and museums to its stunning natural attractions and outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Downtown Miami. Whether you’re a foodie, an art lover, or an outdoors enthusiast, Downtown Miami is worth exploring.