Miami is a vibrant city, home to a diverse set of cultures and lifestyles. There are many worthwhile things to do in Miami, both for vacationers and those who call Miami home. From touring museums, to soaking up the sun at the beach, or shopping your way through a lively crowd, there is something for everyone in Miami.
Frost Science Museum
The Frost Science Museum is slated to open on May 8th and become one of the most impressive museums in the world, combining an epic aquarium with a world-class planetarium. The 250,000 square foot campus has everything from space exploration to education about the ecosystem of the everglades. The north and west wings will be six stories high with a lunar terrace and a telescope on the roof. The 500,000-gallon cone-shaped aquarium is spread across 3 levels, incorporating multiple habitats and ecosystems. The deepest level will represent the vast depths of the gulf stream, featuring mysterious deep-water aquatic life.
Bayside Marketplace
Bayside Marketplace is a lively melting pot of cultures with food and people from all over the world. There are over 150 specialty and tourist shops, cafes and restaurants. Located right on the bay, the market has a lively atmosphere with live music in the evenings. If you are looking for things to do in Miami, dinner and drinks on the water is a favorite pastime in this area. Otherwise, it is easy to spend a few hours browsing the shops, admiring the bay, and soaking up the fun vibe.
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Built in the 1910s for industrialist James Deering, Vizcaya has been described as “the finest private house ever built in America.” After James died, his nieces conveyed Vizcaya to Dade County. It was opened as a museum in 1952. In 1994, Vizcaya was named a National Historic Landmark by the United States Secretary of the Interior. This Italian Renaissance-style villa is impeccably preserved, and the gardens are reminiscent of seventeenth and eighteenth century Italy and France. The extravagant architecture, European antiques, serene gardens, and historical significance attract over 200,000 people per year. A tour around the main house, formal gardens, and grounds is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Venetian Pool
The Venetian Pool is a little taste of Venice just outside of Miami. Built from a coral rock quarry in 1923, the Venetian Pool is a beautiful and unique aquatic center. Its two historic lookout towers and signature bridge add to the exotic allure. The pool brings in hundreds of thousands of visitors every year and is fed by a natural spring. Sale of admission tickets are ceased once the facility has reached maximum capacity, so make sure you get there early or call ahead.
Wynwood Walls
The Wynwood Walls was conceived to transform the warehouse district in 2009. The district had a large number of abandoned warehouse buildings whose walls were turned into giant canvases. To date, over 50 artists from 16 countries have contributed to 80,000 square feet of walls. As originator Tony Goldman says, “We have strived for a diverse representation of both American and international artists that encompasses everything from the old school graffiti artists to the newest work being created around the world. The project has truly evolved into what my friend Jeffrey Deitch calls a Museum of the Streets.” Spend a day walking around to check out the indoor and outdoor exhibits.
Ocean Drive Art Deco Tour
The Art Deco district in Miami contains more than 800 buildings built between the 1920’s and 1940’s. The building’s signature geometric shapes and bold colors make this a very interesting tour. If you enjoy walking, taking a stroll down Ocean Drive is a great way to go. This famous boulevard is bustling with life and full of art deco style. You can stop by the Art Deco District Welcome Center and take a self-guided audio tour, or just walk around and check out the views.
The Beaches
When thinking about things to do in Miami, you can’t overlook the obvious, the beaches! There is a beach for almost every vibe in Miami, so make sure you know where you want to visit. If you are looking for a more family-friendly atmosphere, the north shore of Miami Beach may be for you. The North Shore Open Space Park offers clean beaches and green space. Even further north, you can find the clothing-optional Haulover beach park. This park has a more lively vibe, though there are family friendly, clothing required areas as well. If you want to be starstruck, your best chance is to head over to Lummus Park which is frequented by bikini-clad celebrities and other hardbodies. At the southernmost tip of Miami Beach, you can find the 17 acre South Pointe Park and Pier. This park is complete with walking trails and a small waterpark. You can also rent a bike or just hang out and watch the ships pass by.
With so much to do and see, Miami is a wonderful place to call home. If you are thinking of buying, selling, or renting in the area, reach out to one of our experienced agents to find out where to start.