Few locales in America have the sex appeal that Miami does. A Latin flair, stunning beaches, a year-round tropical climate, sizzling nightlife – we could go on.
If you’ve never been here before, it can be easy to get overwhelmed. Rather than stress over where to go and what to go, allow us to do the planning for you. This way, you can focus on enjoying yourself rather than trying to squeeze in every attraction.
Let’s get started.
(1) Kick back on South Beach
After a long trans-Atlantic flight, you’ll be exhausted. Rather than wear yourself out, rent a car in the airport, drop your bags off at your hotel, then spend your first full day enjoying everything South Beach has to offer. Hit the beach first thing in the morning, before the tourist hordes occupy all the sun loungers.
If you are wary of crowds, hit up the 21st–45th Street Beach. This place is favoured by locals, as it’s less well-known and is close to cafes and eateries just off-beach. Get in your run as well – the boardwalk is filled with residents getting their cardio each morning.
(2) Walk the Art Deco District
During the Roaring Twenties, Americans began to go on holiday beyond where they lived. This time coincided with the rise of Art Deco. During this period, entrepreneurs built hotels on South Beach with pastel colours, rounded corners, and neon lighting.
After taking a mid-day rest at your hotel, head out to the Art Deco District in the late afternoon. At sunset, these buildings take on a neon glow that will transport you back to the gilded age.
(3) Partake in its nightlife scene
After dinner (if jet lag allows), make plans to acquaint yourself with Miami’s world-famous nightlife scene. Ask your concierge for club suggestions – not only will they provide feedback, they could get you on the list.
The club scene can be a bit catty in South Beach. Here, good looks, money, and connections will get you in, no matter what. Otherwise, arriving early, ordering bottle service, or having more girls in your party will up your chances.
Not a club star? Plenty of pubs and bars can be found, both on South Beach and in the city. From glamorous Art Deco hotel lounges to dive bars that blast reggaeton, you’ll find something that suits you.
Last thing: get some beauty rest after dinner. People start partying late in Miami, and last call isn’t until 5 am.
(4) Go museum hopping
Over the past couple of decades, Miami has undergone a cultural renaissance. In its downtown, you’ll find several museums that make for a welcome break from the beaches.
Start with the Pérez Art Museum of Miami. Situated in Museum Park on Biscayne Bay, it holds almost 2,000 pieces from the Americas, Western Europe, and Africa. Of note is their collection of contemporary Cuban art; at over 200 pieces, it is the biggest in the USA.
Other museums include HistoryMiami (tells the story of Miami) and the Vizcaya Gardens (an art museum and botanical garden).
(5) Go on a road trip
Want to explore further afield? Rent a car in Miami and hit the road. Start by rolling over to Little Havana. Here, you’ll find food tours, museums, and live music venues that will expose you to this city’s Latin side.
Want to wander even further? Take your vehicle beyond city limits to places like the Everglades or the Florida Keys. The Everglades is a massive wetland that plays host to alligators, crocodiles, and over 350 species of birds. Hire an airboat and go hunting for these marvelous creatures with an experienced guide!
If you like beaches, the Florida Keys are a collection of coral islands that boast plenty of them. Bahia Honda State Park is a favorite of locals, who also enjoy fishing and snorkeling off its shores.