Midtown Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and scenic Midtown Miami with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover top attractions, best activities, must-try foods, and more!


Introduction to Midtown

Nestled between the Wynwood Arts District, the Design District, and Edgewater, Midtown Miami is a vibrant neighborhood in the heart of Miami. Once an industrial area, this neighborhood has transformed into a cultural hotspot with a diverse range of attractions, from museums to parks, and trendy restaurants to hip boutiques. Midtown Miami invites both locals and tourists to explore its rich culture and history.

List of Places to Visit in Midtown

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Rubell Museum: This contemporary art museum features a massive collection of works by the likes of Jean-Michel Basquiat and Jeff Koons.
  • Museum of Graffiti: Explore vibrant and street art at this museum dedicated to graffiti and its history.
  • MDC Museum and Galleries of Art+Design: The museum features contemporary art exhibits and installations alongside fashion exhibits.
  • Buena Vista Heritage Park: Explore the history of Miami’s oldest neighborhood and its early settlers at this park.
  • Little Haiti Cultural Center: Immerse yourself in the vibrant and colorful Haitian culture through art, music, and dance performances.

Natural Attractions of Midtown: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Margaret Pace Park: Situated along the bay, this park offers stunning views of Biscayne Bay and features a jogging path, tennis courts, and volleyball courts.
  • Biscayne Baywalk: Take a stroll along the baywalk for stunning views of Miami’s skyline and Biscayne Bay.
  • Wynwood Walls: Explore vibrant street art displays at this open-air museum showcasing the works of international artists.
  • Bayfront Park: A perfect place for picnics or a casual stroll in the middle of Downtown Miami, Bayfront Park features a beautiful fountain, an amphitheater, and a bustling marina.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Midtown

  • Miami Beach Bike Trail: This scenic bike trail takes you through some of Miami’s most iconic neighborhoods, including Midtown, South Beach, and Downtown Miami.
  • The Underline Trail: Currently under construction, this 10-mile long trail will connect Brickell to Dadeland South through Midtown and is perfect for walking, jogging, or biking.

Best Things to Do in Midtown: Activities and Tours

  • Jet Boat Miami: Get your adrenaline pumping with a high-speed ride through Biscayne Bay on a jet boat. A perfect option for adventure seekers!
  • Wynwood Food Tour: Discover the eclectic culinary scene of Midtown Miami on this food tour that takes you through its vibrant streets and alleyways.
  • Miami Duck Tour: Get a unique view of Miami’s architecture and history through this land-and-sea tour that covers both Midtown and Downtown Miami.

Week-Long Itinerary for Midtown

| Day | Activity | | ————- |:————-:| | Day 1 | Visit Rubell Museum and Margaret Pace Park | | Day 2 | Explore Wynwood Walls and grab lunch at a local eatery | | Day 3 | Go on a Miami Duck Tour and stop by MDC Museum and Galleries of Art+Design for an art fix | | Day 4 | Spend the day at Little Haiti Cultural Center and Buena Vista Heritage Park | | Day 5 | Take the Miami Beach Bike Trail, ending in South Beach for a beach day | | Day 6 | Visit Museum of Graffiti and relax at Bayfront Park | | Day 7 | Take a Jet Boat tour and end the evening watching a movie at the outdoor Popcorn Flicks in the Park. |

Food and Drink Scene of Midtown

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pastelitos from the Cuban Kitchen: Satisfy your cravings with these buttery puff pastries filled with savory or sweet options.
  • Arepa from Doggi’s Arepa Bar: Try out this Venezuelan patty made with cornmeal and filled with meat and cheese or vegetables.
  • Ceviche from The River Seafood Oyster Bar: Experience the authentic taste of seafood with the ceviche made with octopus, shrimps, and snapper fish.

    Local Beverages

  • Cafecito: A staple Cuban espresso that serves as an energizing morning start.
  • Mojito: A quintessential Cuban cocktail made with sugar, lime, mint leaves, and rum.
  • Colada: This Cuban coffee is a rich, bold shot of espresso meant to be shared among friends.

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

  • Hotel Urbano: A modern boutique hotel featuring a rooftop pool and bar, situated near Downtown Miami.
  • Bloom Hostel: Located in the heart of Midtown Miami, this hostel offers a range of dorm and private room options.
  • Midtown Inn: This budget-friendly motel offers comfortable rooms and suites close to Midtown’s main attractions.

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

  • Cuban Cigars: Get a true taste of Miami with a hand-rolled Cuban cigar from a local tobacco shop.
  • Artisanal Crafts: Discover authentic and unique products made by local artisans at Wynwood Market Place and the Arts and Design district.
  • Tropical Fruit: Buy freshly picked tropical fruits and coconut water from local farmers sold at vibrant farmers’ markets and fruit stands.

Local Culture and Customs of Midtown

Midtown Miami has a rich Cuban heritage, which is evident in its music, food, and lifestyle. The neighborhood is also highly influenced by the art scene and the diverse Latin American and Caribbean cultures.

Best Time to Visit Midtown

The best time to visit Midtown Miami is from December to May when the weather is mild and the humidity is low, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Midtown

Do:

  • Explore the neighborhood on a bike or by walking.
  • Try out the local cuisine, including Cuban coffee and pastelitos.
  • Attend one of the many neighborhood festivals and events.

Don’t:

  • Leave your valuables or belongings unattended in public areas.
  • Wear revealing clothing in religious establishments or historical sites.
  • Engage in any illegal activities, including drugs and prostitution.

Safety and Health

Safety in Midtown

While Midtown Miami is a safe neighborhood, visitors should take precautions typical of any urban area, such as keeping their belongings secure and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Midtown

Health facilities such as hospitals and clinics are available throughout Miami. In case of emergency call 911.

Getting to Midtown: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Midtown

  • Miami International Airport, located 7 miles south of Midtown Miami.
  • Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, located 30 miles north of Midtown Miami.

Bus Stations Near Midtown

  • Miami Greyhound Bus Station, located in Downtown Miami.
  • Pompano Beach Bus Station, located 20 miles north of Midtown Miami.

Other Options

  • Ride-Sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Miami.
  • Rental car services can be found at the airport and throughout Miami.

How to Get Around in Midtown

The best way to get around Midtown is by bike, foot or car. The neighborhood consists of several blocks that are easily navigable, or tourists can take advantage of the public transit options such as the Metrorail and the Metrobus to explore the city.

Where to Go Next from Midtown: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • South Beach: Miami’s famous beach is 5 miles south of Midtown and can be accessed through the Miami Beach Bike Trail.
  • Everglades National Park: Explore the unique ecosystem of the Everglades, just 50 miles southwest of Miami.
  • Key West: Go on a day trip or a weekend getaway to this charming island, located 160 miles south of Miami.

Conclusion

Midtown Miami offers plenty of attractions, activities, and cultural experiences for all types of travelers. From the colorful street art to the authenticity of Cuban cuisine, Midtown Miami is a must-visit destination that deserves to be explored and experienced.