As of 2023, Miami was the second most visited city in the United States (after New York City). And really, it’s no surprise – there are a ton of things to do in Miami.
Miami has long been considered a hub for the arts, culture, music, entertainment, finance, commerce, and trade. If you’ve seen Real Housewives, Basketball Wives, Siesta Key, Love & Hip Hop: Miami, and Kourtney and Kim Take Miami, you know the heat and glamor of the Magic City are irresistible.
Miami just has that vibrant, ‘alive’ feeling that makes it an incredible escape. So, whether you’re going for a weekend or a week, let us help you find the top 13 activities in Miami that belong on your “must-see” list.
Beaches and Pools
If you’re planning a visit to Miami, make room for the quintessential Miami attraction: the pool or the beach.
South Pointe Beach
South Pointe Beach is (literally) Miami’s postcard moment.
Located at the southernmost point of South Beach, South Pointe Beach offers soft white sand, clear turquoise water, and panoramic views of the ocean and city skyline.
It’s the beach you’ve seen in all your favorite Miami movies and TV Shows, and it’s just as stunning in real life. There’s also a scenic walking path, a pier for fishing or photos, and plenty of space to stretch out.
Venetian Pool
The Venetian Pool is one of Miami’s most unique spots to cool off.
Built in 1923 from a coral rock quarry, this pool uses fresh spring water. Around it, you’ll find waterfalls, grottos, and Mediterranean-style features.
Note: The pool is closed for renovations but will open in late summer 2025.
Lummus Park Beach
If you’re looking for things to do in Miami, check out Lummus Park Beach. This sunny strip is located on Miami Beach, nestled between Ocean Drive and the Atlantic Ocean.
Lummus Park also offers two playgrounds, changing rooms, and umbrella and chaise rentals. When you’ve finished sunbathing and people-watching, head over to iconic Ocean Drive for a bite to eat and some light shopping.
Miami Date Night Ideas
While there are plenty of casual date ideas to try in Miami, the city has the perfect vibe for a date night to remember.
Sunset Cruise on Biscayne Bay
There isn’t really anything as romantic as a sunset cruise through beautiful Biscayne Bay – it’s the ultimate Miami attraction.
Set sail for 90 minutes on a gorgeous open-top double-decker boat to see the Miami City skyline, Miami Beach, luxury waterfront mansions, and much more. You’ll find a plethora of romantic things to do with your partner in Miami.
Pérez Art Museum + Wine After
Explore modern and contemporary art at PAMM or the Pérez Art Museum Miami. The museum offers tours in both English and Spanish and showcases a diverse collection of contemporary art.
Then, grab a glass and a bite of something refreshing at Verde, PAMM’s onsite modern waterfront restaurant.
Flea Markets
One of the best activities in Miami to do is shopping, and what better place to shop than the flea markets? Bring your wallet and your reusable bags; the flea markets in Miami are unmissable.
Tropicana Flea Market
Running since ’92, the Tropicana Flea Market is actually Miami’s biggest flea market and hosts over 200 booths indoors and out.
Shoppers can find pretty well anything they’ve got their mind on: pet care, shoes, clothing, furniture, food, and so much more. They’re open from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm from Friday through Sunday, year-round.
Redland Market Village
What began as a farmer’s market in the late 80s has expanded into a full-fledged, 27-acre flea market open every day of the year.
Redland Market Village is home to hundreds of vendors specializing in everything from Americana leatherwork to international rarities and toys and tools galore. It’s an absolute must-stop on your Miami attractions to-do list.
Miami Nightlife and Dining
After a day of shopping, beaching, and exploring, it’s time to enjoy an amazing Miami meal. Bring your dancing shoes – there are plenty of spots to dance the night away.
Versailles (Little Havana)
A Cuban restaurant so famous that they had to trademark it as The World’s Most Famous Cuban Restaurant®.
Opened in 1971, Versailles was the meeting place for the Cuban community in Miami. It’s nothing short of iconic, as Versailles was the scene of several political and social movements and stories.
With a firm commitment to serving authentic Cuban cuisine and delicious Cafecito, this eatery is more than a restaurant. It represents the multicultural American dream.
Joe’s Stone Crab
Joe’s Stone Crab is a classic Miami dining experience.
Iconic, upscale, and very “Miami,” Joe’s is old-school in the most charming way. Joe Weiss opened Joe’s in 1913 as a sandwich shop in an as-yet-unnamed Miami Beach. The stone crabs came a few years later, served chilled with hash browns and coleslaw – it was unbeatable.
Joe’s has been an institution for over 100 years, passing on to his eccentric, scoundrel son, Jesse, and then to his daughter, Jo Ann, and her extended family. The eatery has entertained the likes of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, Amelia Earhart, Gloria Swanson, and many other notable figures.
Sweet Liberty
“Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happy Hour” is Sweet Liberty‘s tagline, and boy, does this restaurant live up to it. The food is delicious (find oysters and po’ boys on the menu), and the cocktails are creatively approachable.
Swathed in low neon lighting, this award-winning restaurant is pure Miami energy. With exposed brick and an industrial ceiling, this spot is perfect for a quintessential Miami nightlife experience. Plus, it’s open every day from 4:00 pm until 5:00 am.
Shopping
Are you in the mood to browse some shops? Miami shopping is serious; you’re sure to find something that catches your eye.
Brickell City Centre
Chic, modern, and air-conditioned, Brickell City Centre is the perfect blend of luxury brand names and big-name stores with sleek architecture and great dining options.
Find the latest trendy athleisure at Alo, get a blowout at Drybar, load up on pods at Nespresso, and browse Saks Fifth Avenue in one huge complex. It’s one of the best places to spend a few hours indoors when the humidity becomes a bit too much.
Wynwood Marketplace
For something more artsy and indie, the Wynwood Marketplace is full of cool little boutiques and vintage gems. Find everything from astrology and tarot readings to gorgeous beachwear. Enjoy dining at the deck and refine that pickleball game at the Sip & Pickle.
Plus, don’t miss out on the Wynwood Skate Park. It’s also very walkable and surrounded by colorful murals, street art, and coffee shops.
Bal Harbour Shops
If you’re feeling fancy, Bal Harbour is where high fashion lives in Miami. From BVLGARI to Chanel, Valentino, and FENDI, this is where trained shopping experts go to do some damage.
Bal Harbour is lined with palm trees, luxury storefronts, and great people-watching opportunities.
Get Ready to Explore Miami
Whether you’re here for the beach clubs or the vintage finds, the skyline views, or the rooftop cocktails, Miami knows how to make a first impression. You’ll never run out of amazing things to do in Miami. This city has a way of turning casual plans into core memories, and this article only scratches the surface.
No matter what kind of trip you’ve planned, there’s an activity in Miami with your name on it. So pack the sunscreen, charge your phone, and get ready to visit the Magic City.
If you love your first visit so much that the Magic City could end up being your future home, we have you covered with Miami self-storage.
