The best things to do in Miami for locals and tourists

What is it? From bomber planes and helicopters flying above to powerboats and jet skis racing on the water below, it’s looking like an adrenaline-packed Memorial Day Weekend at this year’s Air & Sea Show in South Beach.

Why go? Lummus Park between 11th and 14th Streets hosts motocross demos, simulators from five branches of the U.S. military, a kids zone, boxing and live musical performances. All weekend, places nearby spots such as Española Way and Loews Miami Beach offer viewing parties, drink specials and other concurrent celebrations.

What is it? The illustrious Grant Achatz and his Alinea Group are back in Miami celebrating two decades of boundary-pushing fine dining. As part of its 20th Anniversary Tour, the three-Michelin-star Chicago restaurant returns to Faena Miami Beach—the site of its iconic 2016 residency—from April 30 through May 25.

Why go? Expect an ultra-creative, cutting-edge culinary experience that nods to Alinea’s past while continuing to rewrite the rules of modern gastronomy. Reservations have already sold out, though there is a waiting list available.

What is it? The official Miami Swim Week returns for its 21st edition with exclusive runway shows, brand activations, pop-ups and after-parties from May 28th through June 1st.

Why go? It's the world’s largest and only official Swimwear Fashion Week, where runway glam and coastal cool collide in a sexy multi-day bender of resort wear, tanned bodies and sun-drenched style. From luxury debuts to indie swim stars, PARAISO is the pulse of the swimwear industry—and a quintessential Miami summer scene.

Time Out tip: Most of the official PARAISO events are invite-only, but plenty of Miami hotspots partake with on-theme events throughout the week so that anyone can dip a toe into the action.

What is it? This third-annual festival along the waterfront celebrates the flavors and sounds of the Caribbean. On Saturday, May 17th from 5 to 11pm, this all-inclusive Soca party brings together top chefs, musicians, mixologists and Black-owned spirits brands from the diaspora for an island-inspired sensory adventure at the Historic Virginia Key Beach Park.

Why go? For the sprawling food village, performances on the live stage, buzzy chef demos, island getaway prizes and a drone show finale by LunaLite. VIP tickets include extra perks like a private premium bar, grazing tables, bubbly, cigars and front-row views.

What is it? From May 29th through June 1st, Third Horizon Film Festival pops up at venues across the city with another eclectic program of films, live performances, art and conversations centered around the Caribbean and its far-reaching diaspora.

Why go? Founded in 2016, this genre-defying Miami film festival is more than just cinema—it’s a space for resistance, celebration and reimagination through the lens of independent filmmakers from across the Caribbean diaspora. Expect to be challenged and inspired by the bold storytelling and visual innovation, with a healthy dose of political urgency.

What is it? One of South Florida’s natural jewels, this 83-acre garden, named after renowned botanist and Miami resident David Fairchild, is filled with tropical splendor: a lush rainforest with a stream, sunken garden, dramatic vistas, an enormous vine pergola and a museum of plant exploration.

Why go? The weather might be warming up, but spring is a great time to visit Fairchild; the flora is in full bloom and the mild weather just beckons you to explore every inch of this sprawling tropical wonderland. 

Don't miss: The whimsical Fairies in the Garden scavenger hunt kicks off on May 9th and runs through June 15th. Snag a few rare specimens for your garden or windowsill at the annual Spring Plant Sale on May 10th and 11th.

What is it? This emerging hub for independent local businesses, art galleries and restaurants (including several Michelin-recognized spots) runs through Little Haiti and El Portal. Like Wynwood more than a decade ago, the neighborhood still has an industrial feel, home to a patchwork of warehouses, smaller residences and even a functioning dairy plant from 1929.

Why go? Little River has steadily taken off over the last few years thanks to its lower rent and proximity to other exciting mainland Miami pockets. Numerous cafés, arts organizations and cultural venues have nestled themselves between old car repair shops and Haitian botánicas, setting the stage for the handful of fresh mixed-use developments now underway in the neighborhood.

Don't miss: Sunny's Steakhouse, an acclaimed pop-up that was recently resurrected as a gorgeous brick-and-mortar restaurant in its original locale.

What is it? With a collection of works from such artists as Robert Rauschenberg, James Rosenquist, Frank Stella and Ana Mendieta, not to mention some high-caliber traveling exhibitions, this relatively young museum (formerly Miami Art Museum) is worth a visit.

Why go? Family-friendly interactive programs bring art home: during free Second Saturday (of the month) programs, museum teachers lead families in hands-on activities inspired by the works on display.

Don't miss: The museum is free and open to the public every second Saturday of the month, often with themed music and art-making activities for families. 

What is it? Miami’s number one attraction (at least on Trip Advisor) is a surreal Italian Renaissance-style villa in the middle of lush, laid-back Coconut Grove. Its meticulously landscaped gardens, sprawling bayfront terrace and, well, the house itself, make up a total of 43 acres.

Why go? Vizcaya is home to some of Miami’s most Instagrammable floors and staircases and makes for the most fetching photo backdrop in the city (just ask the quinceañeras and brides roaming about). Its inimitable collection of European antiques and decorative works from the 16th to 19th centuries is truly breathtaking. 

Don't miss: The free Vizcaya Village Farmers Market, a weekly Sunday gathering of local vendors selling fresh delicacies, hand-crafted products, fruits and vegetables, vegan and baked goods and more.

What is it? Not all beaches are created equal. That becomes abundantly clear when you live near one of the world’s best and then try leaving. In Miami, it’s actually hard to find a beach you won’t like. Still, we all have our favorites, and different occasions call for different beaches. Yes, we have that many. From sunbathing meccas to shady spots for picnicking, we've compiled our picks for the best beaches in Miami.

Why go? Looking to chill in nature? Perhaps try a beach on Key Biscayne. Wanna strip down to your birthday suit? Haulover (the nude section) is your destination. Ready to party? We probably don’t have to tell you which beach is best for that. 

What is it? This is Miami's premier performing arts center. 

Why go? The striking postmodern architecture alone makes it worth a visit. But the fact that it’s home to Zoetic Stage, the Florida Grand Opera and the Miami City Ballet, and occasionally hosts the New World Symphony and Cleveland Orchestra, doesn’t hurt either. 

Don't miss: Arrive to your show early for a meal (or just drinks and apps if you're short on time) at Teatro, the Arsht's recently debuted on-site restaurant that's high on drama (and Latin American-inspired flavors).

What is it? The city’s first and only outdoor museum dedicated to street art.

Why go? The decade-old cultural institution is the famed epicenter of the Wynwood Arts District, legitimizing graffiti art with a roster of more than 50 murals painted by renowned artists around the world—from Shepard Fairey and Kenny Scharf to Kelsey Montague.

Time Out tip: Vibrant in color, deep in meaning and large in scope, the groundbreaking Walls are the undisputed selfie capital of Miami and chances are you’ll recognize some of the murals from the profile pics in your Insta feed.

What is it? When it comes to dining on the water, Miami has a bit of everything: Lively dockside dives, glamorous Mediterranean-inspired lounges and wellness-focused options abound—not to mention storied hotspots where celebrities (both legit and aspiring) arrive via yacht.

Why go? From seafood towers and $1 oysters to dog-friendly decks where piña coladas flow like water, Miami has that and more. If you’re not seizing every opportunity to indulge at one of Miami’s many waterfront restaurants, you’re doing something wrong. Click through to scope out our full guide to Miami's best waterfront dining.

Don't miss: A chill sesh at Gramps Getaway, our 2024 pick for the best new bar in Miami and a recent addition to our guide to the best restaurants in Miami.

What is it? Our former Decorators’ Row has expanded into a hub for vanguard architecture, fashion and art. There are several multilevel, open-air shopping complexes like Palm Court and Paradise Plaza where you can shop luxury fashion labels including Emilio Pucci and Giorgio Armani. 

Why go? There's always something happening at the District. If your pockets aren’t deep enough for the shops, there’s always the neighborhood’s growing number of galleries, a slew of public art and free admission to the district's main art museum, the ICA.

Don’t miss: The food! From Michelin-starred Cote Miami and L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon to Contessa, Tablé and Sushi Yasu Tanaka, some of the best meals in Miami are within walking distance here.

What is it? Authentic cuisine, cocktails and culture—this charming Cuban restaurant in Little Havana packs the neighborhood’s hallmarks into one inviting spot.

Why go? It’s rare to find a place that ticks off all the boxes of a proper touristic experience and also captures the attention of locals. James Beard Award-winning chef Michelle Bernstein is behind the stellar menu, featuring favorites like the irresistible jamón serrano croquettes, hand-cut steak empanadas and risotto-style arroz con pollo. While decorated cantinero Julio Cabrera mixes up all kinds of cocktails, earning La Trova the No. 13 spot on the America’s 50 Best Bars 2024 awards.

Don’t miss: The house band playing Trova-style music nightly. Let the sounds of Cuban son sweep you away!

What is it? Frost Science is an aquatic-driven museum that occupies four buildings—the Aquarium, the Frost Planetarium and the North and West Wings— and features year-round exhibits and is a delight for curious minds of all ages.

Why go? The museum is as state-of-the-art as it gets, featuring interactive exhibits, a 500,000-gallon Gulf Stream aquarium that houses all sorts of sea creatures and a planetarium dome that hosts monthly laser light shows.

Don't miss: On May 10th, the show features an epic playlist including K-pop, Taylor Swift, Daft Punk and Bad Bunny.

What is it? The city’s premier wildlife center is home to thousands of animals, from reptiles to mammals to birds. The sprawling facility spans across 750 acres and is the largest and oldest zoological garden in Florida.

Why go? Due to the zoo’s sub-tropical temps, species native to Australia, Africa and other warm climates comfortably reside here. Forget a safari—Zoo Miami is where you’ll safely spot zebras, giraffes and lions. 

Don't miss: Splash pads and water play gyms throughout the park, ideal for cooling down the kiddos on a hot day.

What is it? A live music venue and cultural space in Little River that is possibly the best place to find refreshing, new, global and up-and-coming artists in town. 

Why go? This is where you go when you want to come as you are and just dance—not to EDM, not to reggaeton (OK, sometimes to both)—but to refreshing sounds like Afro-Caribbean funk, Brazilian disco, salsa, boogaloo or electro cumbia. 

Don't miss: This May, ZeyZey continues to ramp up its eclectic programming, with indie superheroes Future Islands, Röyksopp, Peter Björn and John and more hitting the stage.

What is it? Designed by iconic architectural guru Morris Lapidus in the 1950s, Lincoln Road Mall was once dubbed the “Fifth Avenue of the South,” though it’s now commonly referred to as “Lincoln.” Endless sidewalk cafés, lounges and cultural venues—such as the Colony Theatre—stretch along its length from Washington Avenue to Alton Road.

Why go? The Herzog & de Meuron–designed 1111 Lincoln Road is quite possibly the world’s most glamorous parking garage and houses upscale retail on the ground level. But there are more than several blocks of stores and boutiques to browse and shop for hours. 

Don't Miss: The Lincoln Road Antique & Collectable Market, a bustling vintage fair celebrating its 32nd season on the promenade. Featuring more than 125 vendors, the market happens approximately every other Sunday during season (check their calendar for exact dates).

What is it? Don and Mera Rubell’s eponymous museum houses over 7,700 works by more than 1,000 contemporary artists. From Basquiat and Warhol to Koons, the whos-who of 20th-century artists is well represented.

Why go? It’s a former warehouse the couple turned into a sprawling exhibition space after outgrowing their Wynwood gallery of more than 26 years. With 53,000 square feet to play with, the Rubells have room to exhibit as well as engage the community via school partnerships and curatorial training programs.

Don't miss: The Jon & Vinny's residency inside the museum's indoor-outdoor restaurant space. It's the first Miami location of the celebrated L.A. restaurant group, bringing pizza, pasta and soft serve in a relaxed garden atmosphere.

What is it? Hiking in Miami probably doesn’t come immediately to mind when thinking of this oceanside paradise. We’re more of a mojitos-and-long-brunches kind of city. And to be honest, the only summits we have around here are towering mountains of rubbish. But don’t underestimate the joy of a brisk Miami hike where the air is thick enough to chew.

Why go? Whether you’re searching for a shaded escape through native trees, a scenic stroll along the waterfront or just a peaceful trail where flip-flops won’t betray you, Miami offers plenty of places to get your steps in—without ever needing to learn how to use crampons. Click through for our full guide to the best nature trails and hiking in Miami.

What is it? America’s only full-time orchestral academy, the New World Symphony grooms graduates from conservatories for careers in the symphony and other high-profile posts. Concerts range from classical to experimental, and the quality is high: guest teachers have included Yo-Yo Ma and Itzhak Perlman and past guest conductors have included Sir Neville Marriner and Paavo Järvi. Founder Michael Tilson Thomas of the San Francisco Symphony often lends a hand too.

Why go? Since 2011, the symphony’s home has been a Frank Gehry-designed showstopper in SoundScape Park, where they regularly hold free, outdoor WALLCAST concerts and movie screenings. 

What is it? Miami’s 24/7 ultraclub is a playground for celebrities and hard-partying locals alike.

Why go? If you’re in the mood for going all out, E11even has you covered with a full nightlife experience—think dancers, bottle service and tons of big-name musical performances. 

Don’t miss: A pre-game at Giselle, the club's extravagant rooftop restaurant. Just sit back and take it all in.

What is it? An afternoon spent wandering the isles of Trader Joe’s or Whole Foods sounds fun, but nothing beats a dewy Saturday morning picking through organic produce and testing out kitchen-made salt scrubs as the Florida sun warms your shoulders. We’ve rounded up the best farmer’s markets in Miami, from year-round staples to options with air conditioning, too. 

Why go? For nearly every neighborhood in Miami, there is a farmers’ market, and nothing says “I support local” like giving small farms and mom-and-pop businesses the chance to peddle their homegrown and homemade goods. Oftentimes, you’ll find the produce is fresher (and cheaper) than grocery stores, and packing a picnic blanket to lay out on after a shopping trip makes for a fabulous family or dog-friendly afternoon.

Don't miss: Free yoga under the banyan trees on Saturday mornings at Legion Park.

What is it? A massive 50,000-square-foot art space dedicated to the production of experiential mediums.

Why go? With so many so-called Instagrammable installations floating about, it’s hard to get excited about anything that bills itself as experiential —but that’s not Superblue Miami, one of the city's best immersive experiences. Featuring brand-new works by some of the art world’s most creative installation artists like Devlin, James Turrell and teamLab, the groundbreaking venture challenges perceptions, heightens the senses and generally wows.

Don't miss: The newest installation, Lightfall by Studio Lemercier, which delves into human perception and our relationship with the natural world through an interplay of light, projection and mathematics set to ambient electronic music by Mexican artist Murcof.

What is it? Find a slice of old-world Europe right in the middle of South Beach. Española Way is a charming, pedestrian strip lined with shops, restaurants and cozy, bilevel hotels that transport you to far-flung places.

Why go? Much larger Lincoln Road may have overshadowed it at one point, but the bustling tourist corridor is attracting more locals than ever before with its sidewalk eateries and free outdoor programming. Experience Paris’ café culture at enduring favorite A La Folie Café, serving up hard-to-find French classics. Drink your way down the tree-lined street’s mix of open-air bars and restaurants, stopping to take in the live music and unique people-watching, and get away from Miami without the need to go very far.

Don’t miss: Breezy rooftop cocktails above it all at the laidback-chic Esmé Miami Beach hotel, which recently kicked off a live jazz series on Sunday evenings. 

What is it? The only garden of its kind in the US: a 37-acre park exhibiting more than 500 varieties of fruits, vegetables, spices, herbs, nuts and exotic edibles. An old schoolhouse and coral rock building recall South Florida’s pioneer life, while the charming gift shop sells spices, jams and jellies, unusual seeds and aromatic teas, plus cookbooks on tropical fruits and vegetables.

Why go? The park is also the site of recurring events like an annual orchid festival, blues concerts and a summer fruit festival where you can really stock up. 

What is it? This massive national park spans 1.5 million acres of wetlands. See alligators, cranes, turtles, manatees and even panthers roam their native habitat freely.

Why go? There’s no place in the world like it, and it’s within driving distance of Downtown Miami. With three separate entrances, visitors can explore on foot, bicycle and via boat.

Don’t miss: A sunrise in the everglades by booking a room at Flamingo Lodge, the only hotel inside Everglades National Park.

What is it? Dubbed “Miami’s original neighborhood,” Coconut Grove is an eclectic waterfront enclave with a rich history as the oldest continually inhabited neighborhood in the city. Beyond its recent real estate boom, Coconut Grove is a pretty little neighborhood with some of Miami’s most beautiful architecture and pockets that are full of character.

Why go? One of our favorite neighborhoods in the city, Coconut Grove ranked number 29 on Time Out’s list of the 51 coolest neighborhoods in the world in 2022. It was the only Florida neighborhood to make the list.

Don't miss: Catch the sunset at Monty’s, a lively dockside raw bar with strong tiki drinks and picturesque views of the marina. For dinner, Ariete (New American) and Los Félix (Mexican) both earned nods in the Miami Michelin Guide.

What is it? At the tip of serene, secluded Key Biscayne is this 400-acre state park with beach access, picnic tables, bike trails, and watersport rentals.

Why go? A great place for families with accessible parking close to the sand, Bill Baggs is home to South Florida’s only lighthouse. Take the kids and let them climb the 109 steps to the top of the lookout.

Don’t miss: Boater’s Grill is one of Miami’s best-kept secrets. Tucked away at a far corner of the park, the waterfront spot provides free docking for small vessels and serves moderately priced breakfast, lunch and dinner. Plus, The Cleat is just steps away for a sunset cocktail with your toes in the sand.

What is it? It’s young, but South Florida does have a past and a quirky and fascinating one at that. Tracing the history of the region, from early Indians to rafting Cubans, HistoryMiami succeeds in educating while entertaining.

Why go? The exhibits on the wreckers of Key West and Henry Flagler both merit an extended look, as does the section on photographer Ralph Middleton Munroe.

Time Out tip: Every second Saturday of the month, the museum offers free admission from 10am to 5pm, with family-friendly activities hosted from 11am to 4pm.

What is it? What began in 1964 as a small, private collection of contemporary art is now an internationally recognized institution with hundreds of pieces within its multiple halls. The 1930s Art Deco building also has meeting areas and classrooms for family-friendly programming, though some of that is on hold for now.

Why go? The Bass’s permanent collections, as well as its traveling exhibitions, comprise art people actually want to see—and Instagram (the real reason we go to museums these days, right?). Think large-scale works made up of found objects that probe us and a site-specific work of LED signs that make you feel at home.

Don’t miss: Spend some time on the lawn exploring the museum’s public art, including Jim Drain’s chess table, Ugo Rondinone’s unmissable Miami Mountain and Najja Moon’s monument to motherhood, Your momma’s voice in the back of your head.

What is it? Built by James Deering’s similarly well-off brother Charles, the vast property served as his winter escape and encompasses several buildings, a mangrove boardwalk and a significant archeological discovery. 

Why go? Outdoorsy types will appreciate the guided nature walks and birding opportunities. Plus, the estate boasts a fossil pit of 50,000-year-old animal bones and 10,000-year-old human remains; the latter are Paleo-Indians.

Don't miss: Aside from guided tours, Deering hosts a variety of nature and art-inspired events, from sunrise photography and plein air painting sessions to moonlit kayaking and bird walks around the property. Check their calendar for the full lineup.

What is it? More than 800 buildings from the 1930s and early ’40s survive in the city’s historic Deco District, between 5th Street to the south and Dade Boulevard to the north. 

Why go? Amazingly, these buildings were almost destroyed by developers in the early 1970s. Their survival is due to a handful of activists who, in 1976, founded the Miami Design Preservation League (MDPL). With their help, a number of the best Miami hotels, and even some South Beach clubs, have maintained their beautiful façades and historical designation.

Don't miss: A few of our favorite Art Deco buildings, including the Celino Hotel, the Carlyle and the historic Miami Beach U.S. Post Office. 

What is it? A throwback to Florida’s fruit stands of old, Robert is Here started in 1959 when the shop’s namesake, then six, began selling his family’s cucumbers from a roadside table. It has since grown into an emporium of exotic fruit and vegetables—and a huge tourist attraction.

Why go? A lovely farm setting, a bevy of exotic fruit—which you can ask to be whipped into a fresh milk shake—and an adorable petting zoo make this worthy of the trek down (way) south.

Don’t miss: Beyond sourcing nearly every type of fruit available, Robert is Here stocks “Grandma’s Kitchen,” its small general store, with local honey, artisanal bread and other yummy, Miami-made treats. 

What is it? Contrary to what any rap or reggaeton music video might have you believe, life’s not all about flexing on a megayacht around here. In Miami, we get down with watercraft in all their forms. On the beach, in the bay and dotting the canal and river-crossed landscapes in between, you can find rental options aplenty spanning everything from pontoons and Miami boat tours to those delightfully zippy jet skis. 

Why go? Because it's hot, and zipping around on the water sounds like a really fun way to cool down. On the jet ski front, we’ve vetted some primo locales for zooming through Miami’s glistening waters, as well as go-to companies for ensuring the rental process goes smoothly.

Time Out tip: When your next Miami jet ski adventure calls, we’ve scouted out who to turn to and where to go for an amazing time on the water, plus tips on pricing, tours and more. 

What is it? This self-proclaimed “most famous Cuban restaurant in the world” is arguably more popular than its palatial namesake in France. The Little Havana institution is the unofficial meeting place for the city’s Cuban community, who crowd the cafecito window 24/7 sipping on Cuban coffee.

Why go? Toasted Cuban sandwiches, piping-hot Cuban coffee served in thimble-sized cups, authentic Cuban pastelitos made the exact same way for 40-plus years, yummy arroz con pollo...shall we go on? 

Don’t miss: Versaille’s adjacent bakery (it all connects inside) doubles as a charming dessert shop selling mini flans and key lime pies as well as Cuban-inspired ice cream. Get your meal to-go or take advantage of the large tents in the parking lot, offering loads of socially distant outdoor dining.

What is it? What do tourists like more than exploring South Beach, scarfing down Cuban sandwiches or basking on the best Miami beaches? Of course, it’s shopping in a Miami outlet mall. Vaguely lost-looking visitors shuffle through the perennially bottlenecked corridors of these bargain emporiums, loading up their empty suitcases with just about every sale item imaginable—from clothes to housewares to accessories.  Occasionally, it’s locals who begrudgingly schlep across highways and massive parking lots and dodge swarms of sale shoppers all in the name of a good deal. 

Why go? Are outlet malls in Miami pleasant? If you can avoid going on a weekend, they can be. Will they save you loads of money? Always, so we visit them anyway. Click through to get primed on the best discount shopping Miami has to offer.

What is it? A stunning rooftop bar that sits atop East, Miami, rewarding those who venture up with 360-views of the city and Asian-themed cocktails. It’s a bougie crowd, so dress accordingly.

Why go? While a rooftop bar on the mainland might not instantly seem like an essential thing to do in the city, Sugar is deserving of its spot on the list. At 40 floors, it’s the tallest bar in Miami and its secluded, storybook garden setting is like none other.

Don’t miss: Come before the crowds to catch an absolutely stunning sunset over the Miami skyline. Stick around for the lively after-dinner crowd, or bop around Downtown after wetting your beak to find less pricy drinking options. Reservations are definitely recommended. Looking for more rooftop action? Check our full guide to Miami's best rooftop bars.

What is it? Yes, Miami can be over-the-top bougie. But there’s also plenty to experience here on the cheap, like a day sunbathing on one of Miami’s famous beaches or scouring for treasures at the best thrift shops in Miami. For the latter, peruse our full guide to the best flea markets in Miami.

Why go? If it’s time to give your wallet a little break or the thrill of a great bargain just gets you off, look no further. We’ve hunted down all of Miami’s best flea markets so you can get your fill of guilt-free shopping.

What is it? Built in the mid-1100s near Segovia, Spain, this monastery was occupied by Cistercian monks for 700 years before it was converted to a granary and stable. In 1924, newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst purchased the cloisters and outbuildings and had the structure dismantled and shipped to the United States. Hearst ran out of money, and the stones remained in a Brooklyn warehouse for 26 years before finally being purchased and reassembled in Miami at a cost of $1.5 million.

Why go? Today, this Romanesque structure is an anomalous oasis in a noisy area. Things to look out for include a life-size statue of the Spanish king Alfonso VII (the monastery was originally constructed to commemorate one of his victories over the Moors) and a couple of attractive round stained-glass windows.

Time Out tip: The monastery is a favorite spot for weddings – so much so that it’s often closed to the public, especially on Sundays; call in advance before setting out.