Palm trees, beaches, and diversity are the first things you’ll see when you’re in Miami. A city full of different cultures, Miami is a beautiful city full of variety and has a little bit of everything for the entire family. From the nightlife to the family-friendly activities, Miami is an excellent spot for vacationing.
As a Miami native, I’ve been to many places, restaurants, and hotels around the city. So rather than list every place I’ve been to, these are all the places I’ve been to that I quite enjoyed.
Things to See in Miami
1. Art Deco Historic District
There’s plenty of places to see in Miami, but one of the first things visitors should see is the Art Deco Historic District. The Art Deco Historic District has these beautiful pastel buildings from the early 1930s. Aside from all the history in this area, the district also has numerous restaurants, shops, and hotels.
2. Wynwood
If you haven’t seen the Wynwood Walls, then this is definitely a place to go to. This area has great nightlife, but during the day, you can visit the walls and explore the surroundings. You can also get some Taiyaki ice cream and eat at some very unique restaurants.
3. Little Havana
Little Havana is one of my favorite places to explore. Here you can learn all about the Cuban culture, from the food to the way they make cigars; it’s a fun place to visit. To learn more about Little Havana, be sure to check out my post about my tour around the area, where I talk about various restaurants, the cigar shop, and Domino Park.
4. Miami Design District
If you’re looking for a luxury shopping experience, then the Design District is the place to visit. Even if you do not have the money to buy anything, it’s a great spot to enjoy some ice cream and look at all the nice art installations in the area.
5. Coconut Grove
Home to Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, The Miami Science Museum, and CocoWalk, Coconut Grove is a great area to spend the whole day in. Stop by Vizcaya and then spend the rest of it in CocoWalk, a shopping, and dining district.
Things to Do in Miami
1. Visit Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
This is such a gorgeous museum and gardens to visit. Vizcaya is a tribute to the Italian Renaissance with its lavish architecture and furnishings. It’s a great place for photoshoots and anyone looking for good photos.
2. Stroll around Bayside Marketplace
Located in downtown, the Baysidearketplace is a two-story open-air shopping center. It’s a very different shopping center due to how tropical it looks, especially since it’s open air. It has a nice waterfront atmosphere, and there’s usually live music playing.
3. Cruise around Millionaire Homes
Miami has such a thing called “Millionaire’s Row,” which is the home of the rich and famous. For anyone wanting to see how Millionaires live, there are sightseeing cruises that take you around the area.
4. Go to the Phillip and Patricia Frost Mueum of Science
If you like science museums, then this is a good one to go to. Not only is this a hands-on facility, but it offers technology exhibits, the planetarium, and wildlife centers.
5. Watch a show at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts
New York may be well known for broadways and anything related to the performing arts, but the Adrienne Arsht Center shouldn’t be skipped. Aside from having some fabulous shows planned, this center is also charming and elegant.
6. Visit the Gold Coast Railroad Museum
The Gold Coast Railroad Museum has some amazing trains to look at. Aside from that, it’s great to see a museum that is dedicated to preserving historic equipment.
7. Play in the Casino at Miccosukee Resort & Gaming
There are plenty of casinos around, but the Miccosukee Resort & Gaming is quite popular. They also have a restaurant and some fascinating Miccosukee decor around the building.
8. Stroll around The Kampong
It can get pretty hot in South Florida, but when the weather is nice enough, take a stroll around The Kampong, which is a botanical garden. This 9-acre botanical garden contains a fascinating array of tropical plants and flowering trees. It’s a perfect garden for anyone looking to do more outdoors.
For more things to do, check out my whole section on South Florida. You can also go to my post ‘110 Things to do in Florida‘ for even more ideas.
Restaurants to Visit in Miami
1. Mr. and Mrs. Bun
This delicious place serves Peruvian empanadas, sandwiches, soups, and other comfort foods. It’s a small place, but they have a good variety of sandwiches. On my first visit, I got their Aji de Gallina and Spinach Alfredo empanadas. They also have a delicious Maple Cumin Corn. I got their braised short rib sandwich, frozen lemonade, and a Lucuma Mousse with Oreo crumbs on my second visit.
2. Cafe Bea
Another cute little spot on southwest 142nd avenue, Cafe Bea, offers some yummy sandwiches and desserts. They also have comfortable indoor seating and a cute outdoor area to enjoy the South Florida weather.
3. Dr. Limon Ceviche Bar – Kendall
There are several locations for Dr. Limon Ceviche Bar, but the one I liked was the one located in Kendall. This spot is very cozy, and they had some of the best food. Upon arrival, we were welcomed with Canchita and Leche de Tigre. They have some very authentic Peruvian dishes and delicious frozen drinks.
4. Los Verdes
Located in Coral Way, Los Verdes is a laid-back restaurant that serves Colombian burgers and more. This place was perfect; the burgers were delicious, and the salad was pretty good. It’s a good spot for anyone craving Colombian burgers.
5. Cafe Prima Pasta
If you’re looking for a place in Miami Beach, Cafe Prima Pasta is quite exquisite. This restaurant offers Tuscan-style pasta and entrees. Although the inside of the restaurant is a bit dark, the decor is quite nice, and they also have sidewalk seating for anyone who prefers eating outdoors.
6. Latin House Grill
Latin House Grill serves creative Mexican fare and burgers. Aside from that, the decor is actually quite adorable and colorful with the murals that adorn the walls.
For places to eat in Little Havana, check out my tour with Miami Culinary Tours. If you’re interested in going to a Peruvian restaurant, I have a whole list here.
Places to Stay in Miami
There’s a variety of hotels to stay in. It all depends on what you are looking for. From pet-friendly hotels to budget-friendly hotels, there’s plenty to choose from.
1. The Goodtime Hotel
A venture between David Grutman and Pharrell Williams, The Goodtime Hotel offers guests a good time. This beautiful hotel draws its designs from the Art Deco influence of its surroundings and has wonderful murals throughout. The Goodtime Hotel has a pool deck with private cabanas serviced by the onsite restaurant, and it also has a library inspired by cult Classic The Royal Tenenbaums.
2. Freehand Miami
This is one of my favorite Miami Beach hostels, not only because of the decor and coziness of the hostel, but it also has the broken shaker, which is quite a good watering hole with inventive drinks and a large backyard.
3. Biltmore Hotel
The Biltmore Hotel has quite a history and usually hosts historical tours. This luxe hotel has accommodations, golf, fine dining, and a grand pool. Even if you don’t stay at the Biltmore, it’s a great place to explore.
If you’re looking for cheaper hotels, check out my post “Where to Stay in Miami on a Budget.’
Will you be doing any of these or staying in one of these hotels? Let me know your favorite spot in Miami!
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