2024-06-20
If you are traveling to Miami this year, here is a complete guide on what to do and see in Miami, meaning, the best things to do in Miami!
Miami is a fantastic region that is well worth a visit, but there are some tips that can make your stay much more enjoyable.
That is what we aim to provide in this article: all the travel tips from our experience in Miami so that you can make the most of your stay.
But before we continue, we should explain that Miami and Miami Beach are two distinct cities.
Miami is part of the mainland United States, while Miami Beach is located on an island.
We had the opportunity to visit both regions, but we understand there may be some confusion about what to visit in each.
Best Things to Do and Visit in Miami
Miami is the economic and financial center of South Florida and the sixth most densely populated city in the United States.
To give you an idea, during our visit we focused on two areas of Miami: Downtown (including Port of Miami, Freedom Tower, Pérez Art Museum Miami, and Brickell Avenue) and Little Havana.
Explore Downtown Miami, the area of skyscrapers
Visiting Downtown Miami is a must on any trip to Miami.
When we visited Downtown Miami, we were reminded of our visit to Hong Kong and how small we felt compared to the skyscrapers around us. So, here is a list of the main tourist attractions in Miami.
Port of Miami – The Port of Miami is located on an island that belongs to the Downtown area, but even if you don’t plan to embark on any cruise, this is a pleasant area for a stroll.
Freedom Tower – Did you know that the Freedom Tower stands out from the other buildings due to its Mediterranean-style architecture? The yellow building was once the place where Cuban immigrants were registered.
Pérez Art Museum Miami – If you appreciate contemporary art, don’t miss the opportunity to visit this museum. It opened its doors in 2013.
Brickell Avenue – This is the avenue where several international bank headquarters are located. Here, the skyscrapers are more imposing, and some consider it to be the Wall Street of Florida.
Explore Little Havana, Caribbean flavor in Miami
Little Havana is a typically Cuban neighborhood that feels more like Cuba than the United States.
In Little Havana, Spanish is the spoken language. In fact, you might have difficulty communicating if you don’t understand Spanish.
Roosters are a symbol of good luck, so you will see colorful rooster statues scattered throughout the neighborhood.
- Calle 8 – This is the main street of Little Havana. On this street, you can find the famous rooster statues, as well as shops selling Cuban products like crafts, coffee, and cigars. We tried Cuban coffee at the Little Havana Visitors Center.
- Máximo Gómez Park – Retirees gather daily in this park to play chess and dominoes. If you’re lucky, you might be invited to play with them. Just remember, this activity is taken very seriously, so don’t even think about cheating.
- Cafés and restaurants in Little Havana – If you’re in Little Havana, don’t miss the chance to enjoy an authentic Cuban meal. There are many options, but Versailles Restaurant is perhaps the most traditional, open since 1971. You can find it at 3555 Southwest 8th Street.
How to get to Little Havana – It takes about 30 minutes from Miami International Airport. You need to take bus number 7 heading to Downtown Miami.
Extra Tips to Make the Most of Little Havana
Little Havana is not a central area in Miami, so if you’re looking for cheap accommodation, this is the place. However, don’t expect an American experience; be prepared for a Cuban rhythm!
Viernes Culturales or Cultural Fridays happens on the last Friday of every month. This free event includes art exhibitions, live music, and dancers who entertain visitors with Cuban songs.
These moments help keep Cuban traditions and spirit alive among residents.
Best Things to Do and Visit in Miami Beach
Exploring the beaches of South Beach
In our opinion, it’s where you’ll find the best beaches, as well as the iconic lifeguard huts.
The sandy beach is extensive, and the waves are gentle, making it the perfect spot for families traveling with children.
Be aware that jellyfish occasionally appear and can sting.
Jellyfish stings are painful, so if it happens, we suggest you go to the lifeguards, as they have a solution they apply to the burn that reduces the pain.
It’s also the most popular area for tourists, so expect some crowds.
There are many hotels, bars, and restaurants catering to tourists here, which unfortunately means high prices.
Stroll along the iconic Ocean Drive
Ocean Drive is the most vibrant and iconic street in South Beach, Miami Beach.
We chose a hotel in this area because of its central location and lively atmosphere, both day and night.
During the day, Ocean Drive is a popular meeting point, whether for its sunny beaches, well-kept gardens, or the various restaurants offering quick meals or sophisticated dishes.
But when night falls, the street comes even more alive. Restaurants and bars fill up, and lively music echoes from every corner.
Believe me, it’s a place where energy is never lacking.
Additionally, it’s not uncommon to see parades of luxury cars on the illuminated streets of Ocean Drive, in Miami Beach. It truly feels like living inside a Hollywood movie.
It’s also worth noting that Ocean Drive is part of the Miami Beach Architectural District, known for its Art Deco style.
And the buildings along Ocean Drive, such as the Imperial, Majestic, Avalon, Carlile, Cavalier, and Beacon, are excellent examples of this architectural movement that defines the urban landscape of Miami Beach.
Seeing the Versace Mansion in Miami Beach
There are places that, while not typical tourist attractions, are still well-known, like the Versace Mansion in Miami Beach.
Did you know it is also called the Casa Casuarina? It was at the doorstep of this mansion that its owner, Gianni Versace, was assassinated in 1997.
The Versace Mansion is now a boutique hotel and restaurant, so it is possible to visit the space if you stay at the hotel or, alternatively, have lunch or dinner at the restaurant.
However, be aware that table reservations are mandatory as it is a highly sought-after spot.
The Versace Mansion is located at 1116 Ocean Drive.
Strolling in Lummus Park
Visiting Lummus Park in Miami Beach is a great choice if you are traveling with children, as there is a free-entry playground here.
Additionally, it is a popular spot for locals to exercise at the outdoor gym available in the park.
You should also know that there is a drinking water fountain where you can refill for free.
Lummus Park is located in Miami Beach between 4th and 15th Street.
When we visited Miami Beach, we stayed on Ocean Drive, which required us to pass through Lummus Park daily. So, during our stay in Miami, we went through Lummus Park every day, and at various times of the day.
Therefore, we got a good sense of the park’s activity. The hustle and bustle start early in the morning, with athletes running back and forth. Mid-morning, bodybuilders gather at the outdoor gym.
But many tourists also stop by to take photos of the men and women exercising there.
Next, groups of young people arrive to have fun playing volleyball.
Finally, at the end of the day, families who have been at the beach pass by to take a shower before heading home and spending a few minutes in the park.
Dinner on Española Way
Española Way is a special neighborhood! The two or three-story houses in this area are the opposite of the skyscrapers of South Beach and completely different from the Art Deco buildings in the Historic District.
It is said that the first inhabitants of Española Way settled there in the 1920s.
We visited Española Way at night, seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of Ocean Drive.
The truth is that although Española Way is quite busy, it has a more family-friendly atmosphere compared to the craziness of Ocean Drive. It’s common to see families with young children strolling around.
Additionally, part of the neighborhood is closed to traffic, at least during the evening, making it easier and safer for people to walk.
This area gets quite popular in the late afternoon because of the many bars and restaurants. We were not surprised by the number of Mexican restaurants we found in Española Way and took the opportunity to have dinner there.
Española Way is located between 14th and 15th Streets in Miami Beach, very close to South Beach, so you can easily walk there. If you prefer to travel by bus, take line 103.
A Day of Fun at Jungle Island in Miami
Jungle Island is an island between Miami and Miami Beach connected by the MacArthur Causeway. If you’re in Downtown Miami, you can take buses 119 or 120. However, if you’re in Miami Beach, in addition to these two routes, you can also take bus 113.
Jungle Island is located at 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Miami.
If you’re traveling with children, you can’t miss a day at this theme park! The main attractions include inflatables and zip lines for the younger ones, and escape rooms and flight simulators for the grown-ups.
There’s no doubt that this theme park is fantastic! Just be aware that the general admission ticket does not include all attractions. So, if you want, for example, to try the flight simulator, you need to buy a separate ticket. The same applies to animal interactions.
At Jungle Island, you can hug sloths or lemurs, but at an additional cost.
Shopping on Lincoln Road in Miami Beach
It’s also known as Lincoln Road Mall, as it’s an open-air shopping center! It’s a bustling pedestrian zone with many art galleries, international brand stores, and restaurants. It has everything for a pleasant afternoon, don’t you think?
Lincoln Road is close to South Beach, so you can easily walk there. In fact, if you’ve rented a car, it’s best to park it in a parking lot as parking on this street can be challenging.
If you prefer to take the bus, you can catch bus number 103 on Washington Avenue near Lummus Park.
With so much to offer, you’re sure to find stores unknown in Portugal that may interest you.
This is because while Europe has stores like Zara, Mango, H&M, Adidas, Lacoste, and others, there’s the advantage here of not having to carry your purchases all the way back home.
Additionally, if you’re looking for souvenirs, there are several shops in this area that cater to that.
Please note that the stores and art galleries typically open from 10:00 AM onwards, and restaurants open closer to lunchtime.
Exploring the Holocaust Memorial
Changing the subject a bit from the trip, in Miami Beach there is a memorial to the victims of the Holocaust that we wanted to visit. This place is a must-visit for those interested in history.
As you know, we travel with our children and take the opportunity to teach them about historical events while exploring new places. This approach makes our trips educational for the whole family.
The Holocaust Memorial in Miami Beach was built by a group of Holocaust survivors who found refuge in Miami.
The memorial is impressive, with sculptures and installations that evoke the memory of the victims and the horrors of the Holocaust.
Admission is free, making the memorial accessible to everyone. I highly recommend a visit, not only to honor the victims but also to reflect on the importance of peace and tolerance.
The experience is profound and moving, providing a unique learning opportunity.
Hotels and accommodation in Miami and Miami Beach
As I mentioned earlier, I visited Miami a few days before embarking on a Caribbean cruise and Miami Beach after the cruise ended.
Therefore, I can give you suggestions on where to stay in these two areas.
In Downtown Miami, the financial center, I stayed at the Holiday Inn, an economical hotel with a good location.
In Miami Beach, I chose a location in South Beach, right in the heart of the Art Deco District, which, in my opinion, was the perfect location.
👉Which is the best area to stay in Miami Beach
Cuisine in Miami: restaurants, typical food, and street food
Want to know what foods we tried in Miami? If you’ve been following us for some time, you probably know that we really enjoy culinary adventures when we visit a new place. Miami was no exception.
Cuban sandwich
The Cuban sandwich, which translates to “sanduíche cubana,” is a true culinary institution in Miami Beach.
Highly popular, especially for lunch, this iconic dish is a must-try experience for anyone visiting the city.
The Cuban sandwich typically consists of roasted pork, cured meats, mustard, and cheese, pressed together until melted and fused. Additionally, a generous layer of butter is spread on the bread, giving it an incredibly crispy texture.
So, if you’re visiting Miami Beach and want to taste an authentic Cuban sandwich, there are a few places to add to your list.
One standout is Havana 1957 Cuban Cuisine Espanola Way. It’s one of the best spots to experience this typical dish because it offers an ambiance that transports visitors straight to 1950s Cuba, with food as authentic as the setting itself.
Another notable venue is Puerto Sagua Restaurant. Known for its friendly atmosphere and traditional dishes, this restaurant is a must-stop for any Cuban cuisine enthusiast. The Cuban sandwich here is simply out of this world, and the service makes you feel right at home.
Lastly, Bella Cuba Restaurant is another excellent choice. They offer a slightly modern take on the Cuban sandwich while preserving the essence of the dish. The quality of ingredients and attention to detail make all the difference.
Macaroni and Cheese ou mac & cheese
Macaroni and Cheese, or simply mac & cheese, is a dish commonly seen in American TV shows, but one I had never tried before.
I took the opportunity while in Miami to do so, and I must say I now understand perfectly why it’s so popular!
The version I tried was simple: just pasta and cheese, but surprisingly flavorful.
However, I discovered that there are various more elaborate versions of this classic dish. Some include bacon, others a variety of toppings that add different flavors.
I believe the secret to a good mac & cheese lies in the quantity and type of cheese used. Therefore, it’s important to find the perfect balance to prevent the dish from becoming overwhelming.
If you want to try restaurant-worthy mac & cheese, I highly recommend a few places that impressed me. Yardbird Table & Bar is an excellent choice, known for its traditional approach and high-quality ingredients.
Another fantastic spot is Yard House, where mac & cheese is taken to the next level with creative interpretations and impeccable execution. Lastly, Big Pink offers an indulgent version of this classic dish, perfect for cheese lovers.
While these restaurants may not be the most economical, I believe each bite is worth the investment.
King crab
The king crab is a delicacy I’ve seen in the freezer section of some supermarkets in Europe, but never had the opportunity to try. Of course, I had to venture out and taste this famous seafood in Miami.
And you know what? It’s delicious! I have no doubt in saying that king crab is the most flavorful seafood I’ve ever had.
The meat is incredibly juicy and delicate, with a flavor that stands out from other types of seafood.
In the dish I tried, the crab legs were cooked to perfection and served with a side of butter sauce. This simple sauce complements the natural sweetness of the crab meat perfectly, without masking its flavor.
But there’s one drawback, and if you’re thinking of trying king crab, I recommend doing it on a special occasion as the price of this seafood can be a bit high.
However, the quality and flavor justify the investment, in my opinion. It just can’t be an everyday indulgence… Bon appétit!
Queso fundido
Queso fundido is a dish whose name says it all, doesn’t it: melted cheese.
Described like that, it might not sound very appealing, but imagine a dish full of melted cheese, accompanied by warm tortillas (you can see the warm tortillas peeking out on the white cloth in the picture). Now it seems more appetizing, doesn’t it?
During our five days in Miami, we tried several foods, but many were similar to what we find in Portugal. So today, we focused only on dishes we had never tried before.
The queso fundido we tried in Miami was simple but very good! The melted cheese was creamy and flavorful, perfect for dipping the still-warm tortillas.
In addition to queso fundido, in Miami you can try cuisine from around the world; however, there is one point to consider: food in Miami is very expensive!
This is the main drawback we encountered. The good news is that portions are generally very large. So, a good strategy to save money is to consider sharing a meal. That way, you can enjoy all the incredible flavors that the city has to offer without spending a fortune.
Cocktais XXL in Miami Beach
Another thing that caught our attention in Miami Beach, besides the portion sizes, were the giant cocktails that have become a hallmark of the area.
In fact, it seems there’s a competition to see who serves the largest cocktail, and to give you an idea, we shared a photo of the drink we tried.
This cocktail was shared between the two of us, and yet we must say that about half of it remained in the “glass,” as we believe in drinking responsibly. In fact, calling it a “glass” is an understatement; it’s more like a bucket or pitcher, given its oversized nature.
These giant cocktails are a spectacle in themselves, served in enormous glasses often adorned with fruits, umbrellas, and other colorful decorations. They’re perfect for sharing among friends or for a special celebration, but it’s important to remember to drink responsibly.
Finding them is easy—just stroll along Ocean Drive and see these extravagant drinks being served on the terraces of bars and restaurants.
However, it’s worth noting that, while they’re fun and delicious, these cocktails can be quite expensive. Just like with food, the portions are large and the price reflects that. But if you share with friends, it ends up being a fun experience and actually more economical than ordering several individual cocktails.
Travel insurance for the United States of America – should you get it or not?
This is perhaps the easiest decision you’ll have to make when booking your trip to Miami! Traveling without travel insurance to the United States of America is too high a risk to even consider.
Medical expenses in the United States of America are very high, and if you don’t have travel insurance, you risk facing a bill of hundreds or thousands of euros.
We recommend IATI Travel Insurance, which, among other features, has no deductible and offers customer service in Portuguese.
This means that if you need to see a doctor, you just need to call customer service, and they will provide you with the address where you need to go.
When you arrive at the agreed location, you’ll provide your name and be seen without any cost to you. That’s right, you won’t have to pay anything.
👉 Get a quote for how much an IATI Seguros Travel Insurance costs for the United States of America.
Visiting Miami and Miami Beach – our experience
On the first day, we stayed in Downtown Miami because we wanted to be close to the Port of Miami, which would make it easier for us to board the MSC Divina the next day.
Additionally, the hotel we chose offered free transfers to the cruise port.
After the Caribbean cruise, we spent four days in Miami Beach, specifically on Ocean Drive.
We wanted to enjoy the beach and the nightlife.
In fact, lively people were everywhere on Ocean Drive! The terraces of bars and restaurants were full of cheerful people, the parade of luxury vehicles was constant, and music filled the streets.
Final Travel Tips to Miami and Miami Beach
Taxes, Fees, and Tips in Miami
The price displayed on products usually does not include taxes. In fact, we were surprised by this in convenience stores and souvenir shops.
Only at Walgreens, where we stocked up on snacks for our kids, did the displayed prices already include taxes.
In restaurants, in addition to state taxes, they may also charge resort taxes (5% / 8%) and gratuities (which in our experience can go up to 20%).
Tips for Saving Money in Miami and Miami Beach
Restaurant meals are generally expensive but portions are XXL; consider sharing.
Some restaurants offer filtered water for free or sell it at a very low price; look around for pitchers or check the menu. In Miami Beach, we were charged $20 USD for a 1.5L bottle of water at lunch.
Supermarkets offer ready-to-eat sandwiches and salads, ideal for a relaxed lunch on the go.
Free Museum Admission: Bay of Pigs Museum, Jewish Museum of Florida (Saturdays), and Miami Science Museum (first Friday of each month between 8:30 PM and 10:50 PM).
A 1.5L bottle of bottled water costs about $6 USD in supermarkets, but at beach access points (where showers are usually located), there are drinking fountains where you can refill for free.
The currency used is the dollar, and to avoid absurd fees and commissions, as well as to access the best exchange rates, we recommend using the Revolut Card.
You May Also Like
- The Best Of Ocho Rios, Jamaica: Tours and Activities For Cruisers;
- Things To Do in George Town: A Must-See Stop on Your Cayman Islands Cruise;
- Visit Tulum: Mexico’s most famous Mayan archaeological site
We are a Family traveling around the world and sharing our journey and experiences at passaportenobolso.com. Here you can find plenty of family budget travel tips as well as practical information about numerous destinations in Europe, Africa, Asia and America. We have visited 30+ countries and we don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. Follow our adventures on YouTube / Instagram / Pinterest / Twitter / Facebook.
